Melissa Reddy axed by Sky Sports, breaks silence on 'abuse'
Reddy, known for her in-depth Premier League coverage – particularly focused on Manchester United and Liverpool – was part of a wave of staff exits announced this week, which also included veteran presenter Rob Wotton, following the cancellation of The Football Show .
Other well-known names leaving Sky include presenters Teddy Draper and Jasper Taylor, as well as long-serving reporter Jeremy Langdon, senior reporter Fadumo Okow, and a news editor.
Taking to Instagram, Reddy confirmed her exit while teasing a new professional chapter.
'Eleventh season of Premier League coverage done and I've called time on three years at Sky,' she wrote.
'I'll still be doing bits and bobs for them. But I'm genuinely sooo excited to share all the things I'll be working on soon… YES – that will include new books.' View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Melissa Reddy (@melissa_reddy)
Reddy, who made a name for herself through bold reporting and breaking exclusives, added that she's looking forward to focusing on her 'strengths and passions', with writing clearly among them.
Melissa Reddy also used her statement to address the racism and sexism she has faced throughout her career.
'After the first press conference I covered in England, a journalist turned to the press officer and said: 'Why are you letting them come over here and take our jobs. You just want a little lick, don't you?!''
Despite the abuse, Reddy affirmed her resilience.
'I will always be stronger than the hate; I know who I am, I know the substance of my work… You can't dim the light of someone who learned how to shine in the dark.'
Her message resonated across the industry, drawing support from colleagues including Formula One presenter Natalie Pike, who said, 'Thank you for always shining a light for the women in our industry.' Football commentator Pien Meulensteen and presenter Reshmin Chowdhury also expressed admiration and support.
As one of the most recognisable female sports reporters of colour in the UK, Melissa Reddy's departure is seen as a significant shift in Sky Sports' newsroom.
However, her move marks not a retreat, but a pivot to new creative ventures – with her audience eagerly awaiting the next chapter.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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