In the live shot, she is heard talking about the cost of coffee in the U.S. and Italy, plus questioning a segment about iguanas: “Where are we going with that one?”
MILAN, Italy — An broadcast reporter from Australia is apologizing after she appeared drunk on live television while covering the Olympics in Italy.
Danika Mason was live on air when she was observed rambling about different topics and slurring her words. She was heard commenting about the price of coffee in Italy and worrying about the cost of coffee in the U.S. before she abruptly pivoted to talk about iguanas.
“I’m not sure about the iguanas,” she was heard saying. “Where are we going with that one?”
In an on-air apology, Mason admitted to having a drink before going on air and said she “totally misjudged the situation.”
She went on to explain that “cold and altitude and not having had dinner probably didn’t help.”
Mason expressed remorse about the incident and said she was taking full responsibility for her actions.
“It’s not the standard I set myself. So, in saying that, I’m genuinely really sorry, and I’m thanking everyone for those messages I’ve received as well,” she said.
The in-studio host attempted to play off the encounter, explaining that cold weather can impact a person’s speech.
It was not publicly disclosed whether Mason faced any disciplinary action over the live shots.