Faith

‘I Went to the Bathroom and Vomited’: Fired ESPN Editor Talks Jeremy Lin & the Power of Christ with The Blaze

Life has been a roller-coaster these past two months for 28-year-old Anthony Federico. The former ESPN editor was fired back in February after writing a headline entitled, “Chink in the Armor” for an article about Asian NBA star Jeremy Lin. Federico, who has been open and honest about the fact that the terminology was merely an unintended mistake, promptly apologized. But the damage was already done, as the young journalist quickly became what he calls “public enemy number one.”

On Tuesday, he opened up to The Blaze about how the scenario has impacted his life. He also spoke about how the power of his Christian faith has restored him, while teaching him valuable life lessons.

“I WENT TO THE BATHROOM AND VOMITED”

Almost immediately after the controversial headline was published in the middle of the night on Feb. 18 (Federico worked the evening shift) it went viral, and his life subsequently changed dramatically. ESPN promptly fired the editor who had devoted nearly six years to the company and who was a well-liked and hardworking fixture there.

Federico told The Blaze that it took only about a half hour for him to realize the headline had caught fire that fateful evening.

“[As I was] going through nightly patrolling of social media to look for stories and trends, I started seeing what I wrote trending,” he explained.

Anthony Federico Speaks Out About Jeremy Lin, ESPN & His Christian Faith

Obviously, he was stunned and saddened over the error — and over the fact that people were assuming the worst of him. He says he was “distraught and shaken up” in the hours following the incident.

His first thought once it was evident that the story was going to be widely-reported? I worked too hard for my career to end this way. He initially hoped that the dust would settle and that his career would be safe. Clearly, he was wrong, as it all got progressively worse once his name was released.

“I thought that the body of work that I had put together working primarily nights, weekends and holidays with an excellent track record with bosses and co-workers…the way I had success there, I was just very distraught,” he said.

In fact, he was so distraught he became physically ill.

“I went to the bathroom and vomited several times because I was so devastated,” he said of the minutes following the article’s publication. “I composed myself and I went back out into the newsroom and I called my boss.”

Federico quickly called his boss, whom he said he had an excellent relationship with, and woke him up to explain what had happened and how the inadvertent error was quickly making the rounds in social media and the blogosphere.

Anthony Federico Speaks Out About Jeremy Lin, ESPN & His Christian Faith

Anthony Federico

“I explained to him what happened and the first thing he told me was, ‘I know you didn’t mean it.’ That set the tone for people close to me,” he explained.

In the end, though, that wasn’t enough to save his job, as the decision to let him go was made at higher levels within ESPN.

“I MADE A MISTAKE AND I OWNED UP TO IT” 

Despite losing his dream job, Federico said that his friends and family rallied around him and provided a support system. People, he explained, knew his character and were certain that any ethnic undertones in his headline were an unintended mistake. But that support didn’t stop the deluge of negative attacks against Federico in social media on television and through e-mails that were sent directly to him. It took its toll on his family.

“My family was very upset — my parents who are such wonderful people — it was very difficult for them to sit back and listen to all the negative, evil things people saying without being able to respond,” he said. “The parental instinct was to defend their child and they weren’t able to do that while the whole world was coming down on me.”

But the family “retreated into each other.” He leaned more on his parents and siblings than he ever had before. When asked about his seemingly calculated media handling of the situation (Federico has been very careful which media outlets he speaks with, and his family hasn’t gone running to speak to cameras and reporters), Federico said that he didn’t rely on expert advice. His intent in the weeks following the event was to show people that he wasn’t (and isn’t) a villain.

“You don’t need an adviser to tell the truth — to tell you common sense,” he said. “One of my most comforting things was that I didn’t have to remember any lies…in every interview I’ve given, I’ve told the same story. I didn’t do anything maliciously wrong. I made a mistake and I owned up to it.”

Anthony Federico Speaks Out About Jeremy Lin, ESPN & His Christian Faith

New York Knicks' Jeremy Lin (17) reacts after a making a 3-point basket during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Lakers Friday, Feb. 10, 2012, in New York. Lin scored 38 points as the Knicks won the game 92-85. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Despite his good intentions, Federico details the sometimes horrific and violent hate e-mails he received on the internet following the incident.

“I had a lot of people just saying pure ugliness. People threatening my family [and] saying I’m a disgrace to the Christian religion [and that] Jesus would never tolerate racism,” he said. “I didn’t believe them for a second. I actually responded to all of the emails that I got that were ripping me. I sent them a response thanking them for contacting me.”

But not all of the messages he received were negative. In fact, in the middle of the disarray, some of the e-mails were uplifting.

“Some of the positive e-mails I got were just like little joys in a lot of dreariness and ugliness — messages from people all over the world, from all walks of life ranging from general positivity to ‘you got a raw deal’ to very ardent, active Christians,” he explained. ”[I thought] ‘I’m not worthy of all these prayers, but I’ll take them.’”

One of the e-mails he received was from a father who told Federico that he had two small children who could learn a great deal from the former ESPN staffer’s handling of the crisis.

“He said when his kids get older, he’s going to have them read how I handled myself in the media to show what real accountability looks like,” Federico claims. “I got choked up.”

Anthony Federico Speaks Out About Jeremy Lin, ESPN & His Christian Faith

SO, WHAT’S HIS NEW JOB?

In the middle of the positive and negative messages, Federico also said that several people felt so badly over his ESPN firing that he got other job offers. One company, a technology firm in Connecticut, ended up offering him a position as a sports consultant in the weeks following the incident.

“They reached out and created this position for me,” Federico said. “It’s a match made in heaven.”

Federico also detailed his meeting with Lin, who reached out to the former editor following the incident. The journalist-turned-consultant called the hour-long lunch gathering, which was held in Manhattan, “fantastic, wonderful and refreshing.”

“I can’t tell you enough how gracious and humble he was…We talked for about an hour,” Federico said. “[Lin] basically waved [the ESPN fiasco] off — he believed me and knew there was no intention behind it. He was totally on my side from the get-go.”

HIS “BATTLE CRY”

Over the past two months, Federico said that the journey hasn’t been easy. Having his name plastered in the media has been challenging, but it is his faith that has guided him through the storm.

“The first thing I did after the initial wave of devastation – I composed myself and offered the entire situation to God. I know and strongly believe that He’s sovereign in all situations, good and bad,” he said. “My emotions and body were telling me to hide, cover, defend — but my faith told me, [it was] an opportunity to really practice what I’m all about.”

Federico went on to say that he believes the situation was permitted by God for either his or someone else’s good. Each day that goes by, he said he gets new assurances from God and others that this situation was, indeed, supposed to happen to him.

“This was not a defect. It was meant to happen.”

“I tried my very best to say a prayer for every person who ripped me,” he explained. “It‘s Jesus’ command to bless those who curse you and to turn the other cheek. It’s easy to talk about as a concept but to truly do it is difficult.”

Citing Romans 8:28 (”And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose”), Federico said that God has used the situation for good. The verse, he explained, tells Christians that God uses “all things” — both good and bad — to work for the good of those who love Him.

“I’ve been using that as my battle cry,” he shared. “I’m here to let God use what happened to me as a platform for His glory.”

When it comes to managing difficult situations, Federico is now a pro. During our discussion, he encouraged individuals — particularly Christians — to “cultivate” what they believe in the good and tranquil times, so they they are prepared to handle themselves if and when disaster befalls them.

“It’s important to strengthen our faith in good times to prepare for the bumps and bruises of life,” he said. “It‘s one thing to discuss Christianity as an intellectual concept and it’s another to live out those principles and concepts. I would encourage people to embrace what we believe and live it out.”

Comments (84)

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  • Leader1776
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 10:48am

    It is the calling of every liberal/progressive to find opportunities where they can claw their way to the moral high ground so they might talk down to the rest of the unwashed. Combine that with their boundless ignorance and you have a recipe for great theater. This is such a case.

    The more important issue at hand here is the blessing in disguise this is for Federico. He has escaped the shackles of ESPN and now will have the opportunity to do great things in his life. He sounds like the kind of person that will do just that!

    Report Post » Leader1776  
    • Obamammy
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 11:44am

      The problem was he wasn’t Jon Stewart or Bill Maher. If he said those things he could of just shrugged it off as comedy and moved on.

      Report Post » Obamammy  
    • Madmadgrandma
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 1:32pm

      The lesson of the “higher calling” is awesome and inspiring. I wrote an email to ESPN when it happened. Zero response of course. You’ve got a fantastic career ahead of you Anthony. Keep the faith…get rid of ESPN….

      Report Post »  
    • UnionSeeker
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 7:28pm

      Am I missing something? The whole thing makes no sense. Reminds me of a remark I made in high school about a football player teammates called Bloat. Coach was seeking volunteers for something and I, who usually kept my mouth shut, quipped in give Bloat the job. The class heard ******** and the next thing I knew I was out in the hall waiting to be “disciplined by the Principal.

      Report Post » UnionSeeker  
  • Really2012
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 10:46am

    It has been amazing these past 3 1/2 years. With Obama leading the trend, it seems funny that everyone is really sensitive about what is written and said, and EVERYONE is finding reasons to be offended by simple, innocent statements that were never originally written to offend anyone..

    Report Post »  
    • angelcat
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 11:38am

      It is like being offended is badge of honor and the more you can find to be offended about the smarter you are considered to be and the more popular you become. Some people seem to be making a career out of being offended. Like everyone else, I have heard and read things that offended me. I shook it off and carried on or simply said something to whoever said it. I’m Italian, so I could be offended by every mention of the Mafia and shows that stereotype Italians. But I’m a grown up. I can take it. I don’t like all of it, but no one said I would go through life and like everything I see and hear. Liberals seem to think that is a requirement in their lives and they must silence anyone who offends them in any way.

      Report Post »  
    • RJJinGadsden
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 11:45am

      Good thing his name was not something like Ug Lee or another word would have to be tossed from the dictionary. Then how would we be able to discuss Debbie Wasaman-Schultz?

      Report Post » RJJinGadsden  
  • HorseCrazy
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 10:37am

    yes the modern day lynch mobs jumping on anyones words splashing their faces all over the place and ruining their life’s work. oh what a nice peaceful world we live in.

    Report Post »  
    • MacPharlan
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 1:00pm

      Yup, I see it on these boards all the time. I wish folks here would follow this mans example of a follower of Christ.

      Report Post »  
  • blackstone22
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 10:36am

    inspiring story. good luck to him.

    Report Post »  
  • TWO BITS
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 10:18am

    One misplaced word became a pitfall for Mr. Federico, but the Word of God is steadfast. This young man and his family will have refuge in faith to sustain them, and may they be blessed in the future.

    Report Post » TWO BITS  
  • JustPeachy
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 9:35am

    More are “with you” on this than you may realize, Anthony. Many believe you simply made a mistake in a headline-nothing more, nothing less. And many of us Christians out here are inspired and encouraged by your strong stand for Christ. We understand how difficult this all must have been and may still be in some ways–and have been/will be praying for you. If God is for you, who can be against you? :)

    God bless you, Anthony Federico! You are shining for Jesus Christ. There is no greater honor than that–no other earthly job can even begin to compare!

    Report Post » JustPeachy  
    • Stoic one
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 10:09am

      I do not even think the headline was a mistake. the incident was contrived by the chaos makers, also known as progressives; this IS censorship, pure and simple.

      Report Post » Stoic one  
    • hillbillyinny
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 10:39am

      @ stoic one

      You are 100% correct. Mistake, no–God planned! Unless you were LOOKING for something to attck (PC people!), the statement made is as old as armor is and I think that goes back before David’s time in the Old Covenant (Testament)!

      A God-filled young man and his family will be used mightily over his live and I will pray for him at every memory of this incident, for the test of my life.

      Put on the full armor of God (see Ephesians chapter 6). And don’t let any “******” (dents, holes, warn spots), happen in your armour!

      Report Post »  
  • Gonzo
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 9:31am

    I know just how the guy feels. Everytime Obama flaps his jaws on TV, I have to go to the bathroom and vomit.

    Report Post » Gonzo  
  • hauschild
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 9:31am

    Yawn …

    Report Post »  
  • HappyHaloHousewife
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 9:14am

    Proof once again that the real racists are liberal. They‘re the ones that see the word ’ch1nk’ and think of an Asian. That was the last thing on my mind when I read the phrase. Liberals need to take more literature courses or something.

    Report Post » HappyHaloHousewife  
    • The_Jerk
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 9:27am

      When I see ESPN, I see the Ebony Sports Promoting Network. Metta World Peace, man!

      Report Post »  
    • HorseCrazy
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 10:36am

      ^^^^jerk that was fantastic

      Report Post »  
    • RJJinGadsden
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 11:53am

      Navin, that was a good one. Wasn’t he the player that choked out his college coach during a practice years ago? Thug then, thug today.

      Report Post » RJJinGadsden  
  • Mxenno
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 9:14am

    Political correctness is the precursor to censorship. It lays the foundation for all of us to be afraid to speak what we think/feel/believe due to repercussions (i.e. Juan Williams.) Political correctness is being imposed on us all to set the stage for rescinding our 1st amendment rights.

    Report Post »  
    • Master.Debater
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 11:52am

      Consequences for political incorrectness is selectively applied. Leftists can say whatever they want with no fear of repercussions.

      Report Post » Master.Debater  
  • Detroit paperboy
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 9:13am

    Just another white Hispanic racist……..as the media would say.

    Report Post »  
  • grimmy
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 9:11am

    Ch!nk in the armor is an expression that has been around for forever and a day.Now had Lin be wearing armor while playing basketball,then maybe the leftwing idiots might have had something to get upset about. F pc speak, and anyone who supports it,it past time to stop walking on egg shells around the commie left.

    Report Post »  
  • Jezreel
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 9:07am

    I would like the Lord to truly bless this young man’s life and that he would grow in the wisdom of the Lord continually but the title of this article about the power of Christ being with the Blaze sounds like mockery of the Lord to me. The power of Christ is NOT with the Blaze. It may share some truths but it is a worldly organization like any other.

    Report Post »  
    • OkStateJay
      Posted on April 25, 2012 at 12:38pm

      Come on. The title is saying that he is talking about being fired, and the power of Chirst, with the blaze. Am I being dense and not hearing the sarcasm you were trying to get across? In that case, you have an excellent zinger here about the very silliness that got this poor guy fired

      Report Post »  
  • Joanne1225
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 9:06am

    I have no doubt that your headline was just the use of a phrase that is used by multitudes of people. “A ***** in [the] armor,” is in the dictionary and is defined as, ” a small narrow opening, such as a fissure or crack; ***** in one’s armour a small but fatal weakness.

    It seems so unfair that a common phrase caused your firing, especially after you explained that you were not using the term in a derogatory fashion, and because it is a common phrase and appears in dictionaries.

    However, I love how you‘ve handled it all and I have no doubt that you’re right where God wants you to be. God Bless you!

    Report Post »  
    • discerno
      Posted on July 9, 2012 at 1:34pm

      There is no way someone in his profession didn’t realize the phrase he used would have double meaning. By declaring it as an honest mistake is a cop out. I would repect him and felt he is truly being honest if he owned up to meaning of what he said and asked for forgiveness.

      Report Post »  
  • Bri guy
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 9:04am

    Thanks Anthony! You didn’t do anything “wrong”, you just simply made an honest mistake. But, the way you interacted with the people who intended to do evil to you, is a true testament to how God can help anyone to rise above anything. Joseph, David, the prosecuted prophets, and Jesus and his disciples are, and all the other saints who have suffered persecution, are I’m sure, smiling down from heaven upon you. Take care brother! I hope you read this! :)

    Report Post » Bri guy  
  • pwatkins
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 9:01am

    May God Bless him and use him to show the world what humble really means. This country is upside down inside out already and keeps getting worse.

    Report Post »  
  • Jenny Lind
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 8:59am

    Good man, hope everything keeps going well for him. His is a true testimony of staying the course when it gets tough.

    Report Post »  
  • HaroldHeard
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 8:58am

    Merit and honor, always wins because God will never lose

    Report Post » HaroldHeard  
  • Inlightofthings
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 8:57am

    …so if Lin wasn’t offended…where is the offense? PC is ruining good people everywhere. If I can avoid anything ESPN, I do it.

    Report Post »  
  • Abraham Young
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 8:56am

    Political correctness is of the devil. And the communists who have interposed it are as well.

    We need to restore common sense when we restore our Republic.

    I won’t go down easy, friends. I hope you are with me.

    Report Post »  
  • momrules
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 8:54am

    What a wonderful story of God’s love and the faith of this young man, Anthony Federico. God does move in mysterious ways and what happened to Anthony has touched not only his life but thousands of others who share his faith in the Lord.

    His story is a blessing to me this morning………see, another life inspired by one mans faith.

    Report Post »  
  • Northrockies
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 8:52am

    The world needs more people like him, who own up to what they’ve done, make amends as well as they can, and move on with life, instead of dwelling on it like so many of us do.

    Report Post » Northrockies  
  • LOJ
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 8:50am

    My summation is that you can turn your life around, The truth prevails in the end! Owning up to faults and bad behavior and changing your life can also change your life!

    Report Post »  
  • Silversmith
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 8:50am

    Hang in there Federico

    Silversmith

    Report Post » Silversmith  
  • kcares
    Posted on April 25, 2012 at 8:40am

    If he was a lib. there would have been to problem. He didn’t give a million dollars to the Obummer campaign.

    Report Post » kcares  
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