Terry Bradshaw once jokingly told off Michael Strahan for urging Rob Gronkowski to stop singing the national anthem.

New York Giants legend Strahan, 52, left Bradshaw, 76, in tears of laughter last year after making a mockery of Gronkowski’s singing skills. During FOX’s NFL pregame program, clips were shown of Gronkowski hosting the LA Bowl between UCLA and Boise State, during which the ex-New England Patriots star sang the national anthem – off-key – alongside the New Directions Veterans Choir.

After Gronkowski defended his singing by saying: “I was doing it for America,” FOX analyst Strahan jokingly chimed in with: “You know what you could do for America? Don’t do that again.”

His remark left the entire panel in tears of laughter. Pittsburgh Steelers legend Bradshaw, who was also howling, said: “That’s wrong.”

Strahan has now landed himself in hot water over the national anthem for a perceived lack of patriotism. He sparked outrage on Sunday during FOX’s broadcast ahead of its busy NFL schedule.

In the lead-up to Veterans Day (Monday, November 11), FOX paid tribute to those who have served in the military as part of the commemorations of the end of World War I. As per tradition, ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ played as most members of the Fox panel lined up and placed their right hands over their hearts, while surrounded by military personnel.

Michael Strahan was shut down when asking about Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson

Michael Strahan has faced huge backlash after FOX’s Sunday broadcast ( 

Image:

Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

In contrast, Strahan decided to keep his hands interlocked in front of him during the anthem, which was quickly spotted by fans. His decision did not go down well with many viewers, who took to social media to criticize the Super Bowl XLII champion and ask for his dismissal.

Newsmax host Todd Starnes posted on X: “Michael Strahan disrespected the military during a Veterans Day pre-game show on @NFLonFOX. The great irony is Strahan on a ship surrounded by men and women who would willingly sacrifice their lives to protect his freedom. So, his behavior is not just repugnant, it’s downright cowardly.”

Amidst the outrage, Strahan has shared a photo of his father, Major Gene W. Strahan Sr, during his time in the military on Instagram while paying tribute to veterans across the US.

Michael Strahan did not put his hand on his heart during the national anthem

Michael Strahan did not put his hand on his heart during the national anthem ( 

Image:

FOX on NFL)

The long-time Good Morning America co-host, who was absent from Monday’s program, wrote: “Thank you to all veterans and active service members who courageously risk their lives to protect us every day. Your selfless service is beyond measure.

“Just as I honor my father, I keep all of you in my thoughts each and every day as we would not have the safety and freedoms we cherish without you. Thank You.”

The act of honoring the anthem and the flag has been passionately debated in recent years, especially in the NFL, since Colin Kaepernick of the San Francisco 49ers ignited a movement by kneeling during the anthem as a quiet protest against racism and police brutality. This gesture from players has sparked contentious discussions, with critics claiming it shows a lack of patriotism.