Josh Morris has branded Latrell Mitchell’s 18-month media ban ridiculous, saying the South Sydney star is effectively putting himself above the game by refusing to speak to reporters. The criticism surfaced on April 23, 2026, after a graphic on The Continuous Call Team highlighted the ongoing fallout around Mitchell’s decision to avoid media duties.
Morris said the arrangement was “absolutely ridiculous” and argued it is part of a player’s contract to face the media. He added that even a press conference or interview once a month would be understandable, but that 18 months without speaking publicly was “taking the mickey.”
Mitchell has been on a self-imposed media ban since 2024 and has repeatedly declined official requests to speak to reporters or appear at post-match press conferences. His retreat from the spotlight followed an expletive-filled interview with Triple M radio after a game in early 2024, which left him in hot water with the NRL.
The league’s rules say clubs must make players available to the media once every three weeks, but the requirement is rarely enforced and players can go months without being put in front of cameras or microphones. South Sydney, meanwhile, is said to be comfortable with Mitchell staying away from the media, believing it helps him focus on his football and bring out his best form.
That support sits uneasily beside the public criticism now building around him. Adam Hawse said it would have been great for fans to hear from Mitchell after he tore through the Dragons with four tries last weekend, pointing out that he has scored 10 tries this season. Hawse also questioned how the NRL can allow the situation to continue and warned that other players could follow suit if Mitchell’s approach goes unchecked.
Earlier this year, Timana Tahu defended Mitchell’s stance, saying he cannot say anything without being criticised. Tahu said Mitchell may have effectively muzzled himself, describing the choice as wise in one sense but sad in another because it keeps him from using his platform to speak for himself. That leaves the NRL with a rule on paper, a club willing to accommodate the silence and one of its biggest names still choosing not to explain himself in public.
