It was A.J. Clemente's first day on the job as anchor at NBC’s affiliate in Bismarck, North Dakota, when he accidentally said “F------ sh--” live on the air — as his co-anchor was introducing him!
Watch the incredibly awkward 30-second exchange below:
Clemente immediately knew he messed up, tweeting after the incident:
That couldn't have gone any worse!
— A.J. Clemente (@ClementeAJ) April 21, 2013
Tough day,Thanks for the support,We all make mistakes. Im truly sorry for mine. I'll try my hardest to come back better and learn from this.
— A.J. Clemente (@ClementeAJ) April 22, 2013
But a few hours later, he flubbed again:
I just want to say that I did not say the word gay, I was trying to pronounce the London Marathon winners name Tsegaye Kebede.
— A.J. Clemente (@ClementeAJ) April 22, 2013
I would never disrespect anybody in that matter. Once again I'm truly sorry.
— A.J. Clemente (@ClementeAJ) April 22, 2013
Ultimately, the station let Clemente go. But he kept his sense of humor:
Unfortunately KFYRTV has decided to let me go. Thank you to them and everyone in ND for the opportunity and everyone for the support.
— A.J. Clemente (@ClementeAJ) April 22, 2013
Rookie mistake. I'm a free agent.Cant help but laugh at myself and stay positive.Wish i didnt trip over my "Freaking Shoes" out of the gate.
— A.J. Clemente (@ClementeAJ) April 22, 2013