One of the most recognizable voices in Minnesota sports is hitting pause.
Paul Allen, the longtime radio announcer for the Minnesota Vikings and host of The Paul Allen Show on KFAN, announced he is stepping away from the microphone after an on-air comment about Minnesota protesters ignited controversy and criticism.
The moment unfolded during Friday’s show when Allen joked about protesters braving the cold, referencing a long-running conspiracy theory that demonstrators are secretly paid by outside groups.
“In conditions like this, do paid protesters get hazard pay?” Allen said on air, drawing laughter from co-hosts. He later doubled down with another remark, saying, “Everybody’s catching strays this week… paid protesters caught one this morning.”
The comments quickly circulated online, prompting backlash from listeners who felt the remarks were dismissive, insensitive, and poorly timed amid ongoing protests across the state.
Within days, Allen issued a public apology, taking responsibility for the remarks and acknowledging the harm they caused.
“I made a comment on-air Friday about protesters and the weather that was insensitive and poorly timed and I’m sorry,” Allen said in a statement. “It was a misguided attempt at humor. While it was never meant with any ill intent or political affront, I absolutely and wholeheartedly apologize to those who were genuinely hurt or offended by it.”
Allen also emphasized that his show is not intended to be political.
“Nine-to-noon doesn’t formulate political opinions. We don’t bash or praise political discussions or even focus on political issues,” he added.
Despite the apology, Allen announced he would be stepping away from the show temporarily.
“My best was lacking Friday, and for that I am sorry,” he said. “I am taking a few days off and wanted to express these thoughts and my sincere apology before I do.”
On Monday morning, longtime KFAN contributor Paul Charchian filled in as host, according to Awful Announcing. As of now, no timeline has been given for Allen’s return.
For decades, Paul Allen has been one of the most influential figures in Minnesota sports media, known for his passionate Vikings calls and larger-than-life on-air persona. Whether this brief hiatus turns into something longer remains to be seen, but the incident underscores how quickly a few words can spark a firestorm in today’s media landscape – even for the most established voices.
About the Author
