Vikings Radio Voice Paul Allen Issues Apology, Takes Leave After On-Air Comments
Minnesota Vikings play-by-play announcer Paul Allen opened Monday’s edition of “The Paul Allen Show” on KFAN-FM 100.3 with a direct and heartfelt apology. The longtime voice of the Vikings addressed controversial comments he made during last Friday’s broadcast, acknowledging the insensitivity of his remarks and announcing he would be stepping away from the show temporarily.
Before the show even got underway, listeners were met with a pre-recorded message from Allen.
“I made a comment on-air Friday about protesters and the weather that was insensitive and poorly timed, and I’m sorry,” Allen said. “It was a misguided attempt at humor, and while it was never made with any political intent or political affront, I absolutely and wholeheartedly want to apologize to those who were genuinely hurt or offended by it.”
Allen emphasized that the tone and intent of his show - which runs weekday mornings from 9 to noon - is not political. “Nine-to-noon doesn’t formulate political opinions,” he said.
“We don’t bash or praise political discussions or even focus on political issues. My best was lacking Friday, and for that I am sorry.”
He closed the statement by noting he would be taking a few days off and wanted to share his thoughts and apology before stepping away.
The comments in question came during a segment on Friday’s show, when Allen was joined by former Vikings linebacker Chad Greenway. As the two discussed the bitter cold blanketing Minneapolis, Allen quipped, “In conditions like this, do paid protesters get hazard pay?”
Later in the show, as the conversation shifted back to football and the recent wave of NFL coaching changes, Allen circled back with another remark. “Everybody’s catching strays this week,” he said.
“(Brian) Flores, Kevin Stefanski from Baker (Mayfield), Charlie (Batch) caught one out of nowhere. They’re just all over, paid protesters caught one this morning.”
While the comments may have been intended as off-the-cuff humor, they touched a nerve - especially in the context of ongoing demonstrations in the Twin Cities against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity. The protests have intensified in recent weeks, and the situation has turned increasingly volatile.
Tragically, federal agents shot and killed Alex Pretti on Saturday as he attempted to assist someone during a demonstration. Earlier in the month, another U.S. citizen, Renée Good, was fatally shot during a separate ICE-related incident. These events have cast a heavy shadow over the city and added urgency to the public discourse surrounding immigration enforcement and protest rights.
Allen’s comments seemed to echo a narrative - promoted by some political figures and commentators - that protesters are being paid by outside organizations, though no evidence has been presented to support those claims. In the emotionally charged environment surrounding the demonstrations, the remarks drew swift criticism.
Alec Lewis, the Vikings beat reporter for The Athletic, was present on the broadcast during both instances when Allen referenced “paid protesters.” In both cases, Lewis did not respond and the show quickly pivoted back to football-related topics.
Allen has been a staple of Minnesota sports radio for over two decades and is known for his passionate, energetic calls on Vikings game days. His show, while often lighthearted and football-focused, holds a significant place in the local sports media landscape. His decision to publicly apologize and step away - even briefly - underscores the weight of the moment.
As the Twin Cities continue to navigate a tense and emotional chapter, Allen’s apology serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with a microphone - especially when sports and real-world events collide.