Penrith Panthers star Brian To’o has defended controversial social media comments he made about teammates’ partners, describing them as nothing more than “banter” and confirming none of the players involved took issue with his posts.
Known for his larrikin streak in the NRL, the premiership-winning winger grabbed headlines earlier this month with posts commenting on players celebrated at the club’s presentation night.
One post saw To’o dub halfback Nathan Cleary ‘the Fowler slayer,’ referencing Cleary’s girlfriend Mary Fowler, after the comment appeared on the Panthers’ Instagram celebrating Cleary’s third Merv Cartwright Medal.
The star winger made similar playful jabs at other teammates, calling Scott Sorensen an ‘Elle Smasher’ in reference to his wife Elle, and Matt Eisenhuth a ‘Holly Destroyer’ after mentioning his wife Holly.
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Even NSW Cup Player of the Year, Luke Sommerton, wasn’t spared—his partner Keira received the same playful treatment.
Following the media frenzy sparked by the posts, Panthers officials reportedly met with the 27-year-old winger, though no disciplinary action was pursued.
Speaking publicly on Tuesday ahead of the Panthers’ preliminary final against the Brisbane Broncos, To’o addressed the posts, explaining his intent and urging fans not to read too much into them.
“It was always a bit of fun and banter,” To’o stated.
“I actually don’t know what the problem was unless I’m talking about your wives or anything like that. It was a bit of banter, all the boys already knew. I always check up on them and see if they’re all right. They were pretty sweet with it.
“I was laughing about it (the reaction). That’s pretty much it.”