St Kilda Football Club CEO Matt Finnis said the club had contacted the Footy Show to convey it’s disappointment at language used on Wednesday night’s episode. 

“Research shows the use of language can have a significant impact on the mental health and well-being of members of the LGBTI community,” Finnis said.

“Comedy at the expense of transgender people is no joke. 

“I’ve spoke to a number of people this morning that were hurt by these remarks.  

“Calling out behaviour that demeans others is necessary to ensure as an industry we are contributing to stamping out issues such as homophobia and transphobia.

“We, like the Footy Show, are part of a broader football industry that has enormous reach and power to influence societal change.

“Just as we were rightly called out for on-field comments earlier in the year that were unacceptable, it’s important we are prepared to stand up for the values of our Club and our stakeholders. 

“We look forward to partnering with the Swans in staging the second Pride Match on Saturday July 22 and continuing our efforts to ensure our game is welcoming to everyone.”