A Raleigh television personality is facing criticism after publicly declaring interest in Carolina Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour, who is married.
Judith Retana, who co-hosts the online show “Wake Up Later, Carolina,” told viewers during a recent episode that she has a “little crush” on the 56-year-old Brind’Amour, a former NHL player who led the Hurricanes to a Stanley Cup.
“Have I seen the coach Rachel? You know I’ve seen the coach. You know I have my little crush on Rod Brind’Amour,” Retana said. “I respect his wife. I’m sure they have a good thing going there, but I’ll be waiting in the wings in case anything goes awry. I’m no stranger to dating married men.”
The video, which Retana later posted to social media, has since been deleted or disabled. A disclaimer that appeared on the clip attempted to clarify her remarks: “Clarification: previously married men as in divorced or separated.”
Retana went further in the segment, adding, “Or men with children. I don’t mind any of that baggage. It’s not really baggage for me, it’s a built-in family.”
Her co-host, meteorologist Rachel Duensing, attempted to steer the conversation away from the subject during the broadcast. The on-air redirection appeared to work in the moment, but Retana still chose to share the clip on social media before it was taken down.
The remarks were first reported by the New York Post.
