Time to Move On: Why Fox Footy Needs to Replace Kelli Underwood in the Commentary Box

Fox Footy must prioritise quality commentary over sentiment when it comes to live AFL broadcasts.

Let’s cut to the chase: AFL commentary is crucial to the way we experience the game. It’s not just background noise — it’s the soundtrack of every kick, tackle, goal, and heart-stopping moment. The best commentators make you feel something. They build tension, release it at the right time, and carry you along for the ride. But when the voice behind the mic doesn’t click — when the timing is off, the tone is jarring, or the chemistry with co-callers is missing — the whole broadcast suffers.

And that brings us to Kelli Underwood.

For years now, there’s been an awkward conversation happening around her place in the AFL commentary space. Many fans have been saying it quietly, others not so quietly on social media: she’s simply not up to the standard required for prime-time AFL coverage. And frankly, it’s time Fox Footy acknowledged it too.

Let’s get one thing straight — this isn’t about gender. It never was, and it shouldn’t be reduced to that. Kelli Underwood made history as the first woman to call an AFL match on TV, and that’s a milestone worth recognising. But being first doesn’t automatically mean being best — or even being good enough. Her pioneering status should be celebrated, but that doesn’t exempt her from the same scrutiny every other broadcaster faces. In fact, to truly treat her equally means judging her by the same standards.

And the truth is, those standards aren’t being met.

The main issue? There’s no flow. Commentary needs rhythm, instinct, a feel for the game’s natural tempo. Great commentators don’t just describe the play — they ride the emotional rollercoaster with you. Underwood’s delivery is often stiff and awkward, with a halting cadence that breaks momentum rather than builds it. Her tone doesn’t match the moment. A game-winning goal might be met with the same energy as a missed handball. It feels disconnected. Robotic. Like a script being read, not a moment being lived.

Then there’s the voice. It’s an uncomfortable point to raise, but it matters. Commentary is an audio experience first and foremost. A harsh, grating vocal tone — whether male or female — becomes a distraction. Many viewers have expressed that Underwood’s voice simply doesn’t suit the role. It’s not about sexism. People had the same criticisms about Brian Taylor’s over-the-top yelling or Basil Zempilas’ nasal delivery. The difference is, even when those guys annoyed you, they still understood the drama of the moment.

And when you listen to a game called by Anthony Hudson, Dwayne Russell, or even Gerard Whateley — there’s a natural energy and polish that makes the contest feel bigger. They don’t just report the play — they frame it. They understand timing. They play off their co-commentators. They bring charisma. When Kelli Underwood is on the call, the energy often drops. It becomes harder to stay immersed in the action. And that’s a problem when you’re broadcasting to thousands, if not millions, of fans who live and breathe footy.

Fox Footy is supposed to be the gold standard in AFL broadcasting. They’ve got the best cameras, the best analysis panels, the biggest names in the game. The commentary should match that level — and frankly, Underwood feels out of place in that elite company. She hasn’t evolved or improved in the way you’d expect over the years. And when you consider the talent waiting in the wings — like Jack Heverin, Kelly Ryan, or even younger, hungrier voices coming up through SEN and local footy — you have to wonder why Fox is holding onto someone who’s clearly not clicking with the broader audience.

Let’s be real — fans aren’t stupid. We know when someone adds value, and when someone’s just... there. And if your reaction to a commentator’s voice is to mute the TV or switch to a radio simulcast, that’s not a small issue. That’s a failure of the product.

Of course, every commentator has their haters. There are people who can’t stand BT’s antics or Gerard Healy’s analysis. But love them or loathe them, those guys have presence. They bring something unique. With Underwood, the criticism is far more consistent and widespread. Not controversial — just uninspiring.

This isn’t about booting her from footy media altogether. Kelli is actually far more effective in a hosting or panel role. Her work on The Back Page is solid. She’s composed, articulate, and handles banter well in a conversational format. But being a host and being a play-by-play caller are two very different beasts. One is about steering discussion; the other is about bringing a game to life in real-time. And that’s where the gap lies.

At the end of the day, Fox Footy needs to stop playing it safe and start prioritising the viewing experience. Commentary is too important to get wrong — and too many fans are telling them that right now, they are getting it wrong.

If Fox really wants to lead the charge in sports broadcasting, then it’s time to make some tough calls. And one of them should be stepping away from Kelli Underwood in the live AFL commentary booth.

Footy deserves better.