Clear Channel suspended San Diego Chargers radio announcer Hank Bauer for the anti-Semitic remark he made during Sunday's preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers. Audio of the remark, which was directed at his broadcasting partner, is posted below.
Bauer will serve a one-game suspension for the tasteless "joke" on Thursday, when San Diego concludes their preseason against the Arizona Cardinals. He's expected back in the booth for Week 1 of the regular season.
Bauer made the insensitive joke in the waning minutes of the fourth quarter during his broadcast on 105.3 KIOZ. His broadcasting partner, Josh Lewin, commented on the rising prices for personal seat licenses at Qualcomm Stadium, to which Bauer said: "But then again, you know how copper wire was invented? Somebody dropped a penny between Josh and his family member."
Lewin, who is Jewish, dismissed the insensitive "joke."
Bauer later apologized on Twitter.
"I made a hurtful insinuation that I regret and I would like to express how sorry I am," he tweeted Tuesday. "My poor choice of words were unfortunately open for... negative interpretation, please know it was never my intention to offend any of my listeners. I hope you accept my apology."
The Chargers released a statement on the incident and subsequent suspension.
"Although we know Hank had no ill-will behind his remarks, we agree the comments were inappropriate," the statement read, according to the New York Daily News. "Per Clear Channel's decision, Hank will not be broadcasting Thursday night's game.
"Hank has been a strong radio voice for the Chargers for the past 16 years and a passionate supporter of the team since his playing days. We look forward to Chargers fans receiving the same high-quality broadcast from Josh and Hank when he returns to the booth for the regular season."
