Brian Taylor, Seven Network’s premier AFL commentator, has been celebrated with a life membership at the 2023 Australian Football Media Association (AFMA) Awards.
Simultaneously, Seven’s The Front Bar clinched the title of Best TV Program for the second consecutive year.
Taylor, who boasts a distinguished history with the game, has twice received the Lou Richards Medal and has been acknowledged for his unparalleled football acumen, commentary prowess, and his characteristic humour and charm. Since joining the Seven Network in 2012, Taylor has been an integral part of the leading AFL commentary team.
“I reckon it’s been about 44 years that I’ve been in the thick of football, and 33 of those have been in the media. Countless individuals have given me a myriad of opportunities,”
Taylor reflected. He shared his gratitude for having worked alongside stalwarts such as Bruce McAvaney, describing him as a guiding force and mentor.
“The industry has been the core of my life. The sheer number of people who’ve been my pillars is vast, but to each one of them, I express my deepest gratitude.”
The Front Bar, anchored by Mick Molloy, Sam Pang, and Andy Maher, secured its position as the top TV Program. The AFMA committee heaped praises on the show, emphasising its unique presentation style. They commented,
“The Front Bar stands out not just for addressing the pressing issues of the sport but for its nostalgic trips with iconic players. Its uniqueness and authenticity make it a pleasure to view.”
Lewis Martin, the Managing Director of Seven Melbourne and Head of Network Sport, lauded both Taylor and the team behind The Front Bar.
“Brian Taylor’s passion and dedication to football is unparalleled. He’s not just about the big matches; he’s also a fervent supporter of grassroots football.
The Front Bar, a favourite of many, offers a fresh perspective on footy’s current and past tales. The entire crew, including Mick, Sam, and Andy, are deserving of this accolade,” he remarked.
Fox Footy was also in the limelight during the awards ceremony held at Southbank. Notably, four-time premiership Hawk and triple Coleman Medallist Jason Dunstall was bestowed with the Lou Richards Medal — a recognition for an ex or current league player excelling in the media. Dunstall, the anchor of Bounce and an expert analyst at Fox Footy, expressed his gratitude to football for the myriad doors it has opened for him.
David King, a dual premiership Kangaroo, was honoured with the Best Opinion Analysis (Radio/TV) award. On the other hand, renowned commentator Anthony Hudson was titled Best TV Match Caller and bagged the Best Radio Match Caller for his stellar work at 3AW. His Nothin’ Like The ‘90s series was hailed as the Best Podcast.
Acknowledging others in the field, Dwayne Russell from Fox Footy was specially mentioned in the Best TV Match Caller category. AFL 360 co-host Gerard Whateley saw his show Whateley crowned as the Best Radio Program. Lastly, Lauren Wood, a Fox Footy boundary correspondent, was awarded in the Best AFLW Program/Feature for her contributions to the Herald Sun.
SOURCE: Fox Footy
