NFL analyst and Good Morning America host Michael Strahan found himself in hot water after fans noticed that, during a pre-Veterans Day broadcast, he didn’t place his hand over his heart during the national anthem. Strahan quickly responded to the backlash on Instagram, posting a heartfelt apology where he emphasized his love and respect for the military, explaining that the incident was nothing close to a protest.
Strahan’s explanation? He was “caught up in the moment.” He described how he was taken aback, watching young sailors standing at attention, admiring their commitment to serve. Strahan grew up on a military base with a father who was an Army major, and he pointed out that he comes from a family of military service members.
“I’m a military brat,” he said, adding that his family’s legacy is rooted in service. He emphasized that he wasn’t trying to make a statement but was simply lost in admiration for those who have chosen to defend American freedoms. Strahan said that by the time he noticed his co-hosts with their hands over their hearts, he had a quick moment of panic, wondering if it would look awkward to follow suit mid-song. So, he opted to stand there with his hands respectfully in front of him.
Strahan ended his video with an apology to anyone who might have been offended, making it clear that he deeply respects veterans and actively supports military programs. But even after this apology, viewers didn’t forget, as many felt the whole explanation still fell flat. After all, Strahan is no stranger to public events where the anthem is played. Given his high-profile platform and military background, his audience expected more awareness from him—especially on Veterans Day weekend.
Michael Strahan assaulted a reporter when confronted about the national anthem controversy.
Maybe put your hand over your heart next time like a respectful citizen, privileged to be surrounded by American troops on Veterans Day weekend. pic.twitter.com/52L7VZ5ETb
— Steve 🇺🇸 (@SteveLovesAmmo) November 12, 2024
On Monday, Strahan took to Instagram again, this time to post a tribute to his father, Major Gene W. Strahan, Sr., honoring his father’s service along with that of all veterans. He didn’t directly address the criticism this time but shifted the focus to celebrating those who serve.
But here’s the thing: in today’s hyper-aware, patriotic environment, a misstep like this was bound to get a reaction, and Strahan probably knows it. People expect public figures, especially those with a military background, to set an example during the anthem. And for some, this apology may just come off as a classic “sorry, not sorry”—an attempt to quiet the critics rather than a real acknowledgment of the oversight.
A word from Superbowl champion and Hall Of Famer Michael Strahan. #Giants100 pic.twitter.com/EBHvn8eL9y
— New York Revival (@NewYorkRevival) November 14, 2024
Strahan’s response might have put out some of the fire, but this whole saga is a reminder that people take respect for the flag and the anthem seriously, especially when honoring those who have served. For a military “brat” like Strahan, they’re looking for more than just a respectful stance—they want the full measure of tribute. And while Strahan’s response may satisfy some, others are left wondering if public figures have lost touch with what these symbols mean to everyday Americans.
