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Lyon had relationship with Brownless' ex-wife prior to falling out

14th February, 2016
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14th February, 2016
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A relationship between Garry Lyon and Billy Brownless’ ex-wife Nicky is believed to be the cause behind the falling out between the two close friends, which was first reported just days before Lyon yesterday indefinitely stepped down from his media commitments.

Brownless and his wife split some time ago with Brownless commenting on the break-up in an interview on Fox Footy program Open Mike last year, saying his public profile had contributed to the failed marriage.

“Yeah, no doubt,” Brownless said. “Because I do think in the media we get carried away with ourselves. There’s no doubt about that. And we get very selfish or self absorbed.

MORE:
» Garry Lyon’s mental health, and the need for respect
» Lyon stands down from media duties

“And it’s all about us, you know. And you do forget maybe your family or your wife or kids. And then later on when you think about it, you think I should have been a better dad. I should have been a better husband.”

“I didn’t see it coming either, so that hurt. Bang,” Brownless told host Mike Sheahan.

The Herald Sun today reported that Brownless had uncovered a relationship between Lyon and his ex-wife and confronted him about it over the summer.

In the time since, Lyon has stepped down from his media commitments to Channel Nine programs The Footy Show – where he works with Brownless – and Footy Classified, with no return date planned, reportedly suffering from a serious mental health issue.

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James Brayshaw is set to host The Footy Show solo until Lyon is fit to return, while Damian Barrett will fill in for him on Footy Classified.

Lyon had a 226-game AFL career with the Melbourne Demons in the 80s and 90s, winning the best and fairest twice, being the club’s leading goalkicker twice, and captaining the team from 1991 to 1997. He was also named All-Australian on three occasions. In the time since, Lyon has developed a successful career as a media figure.

The Roar encourages all readers who may be suffering from mental illness to seek support from organisations such as Lifeline, Beyond Blue or Headspace.

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