Jerry Sandusky did an interview-by-phone last night with Bob Costas on NBC in which he denied all 40 charges of child abuse. I doubt there were ten people in this country listening who believed him and I wonder why his attorney allowed the interview to take place. If I were a fan of Mr. Sandusky and I was rooting for him to come up with a credible response that would cast doubts on the allegations, I would have thrown in the terrycloth and said, "That's guy's going to prison forever and several years after that."
I'm baffled as to what the lawyer thought would be accomplished by not only letting his client go on like that but, according to Costas, suggesting it at the last minute. Costas originally thought he was just going to do a live interview of the attorney but just before they went on the air, the barrister suggested getting Sandusky on the line. My initial thought was that the lawyer and Sandusky planned that — "I'll suggest just before the show starts that we have you answer questions by phone. That way it'll seem more spontaneous and honest." If that was the idea, it sure backfired.
(General rule of thumb: If you're ever accused of raping a child and you're asked on national TV about it, say the words "Absolutely not" within one second of the completion of the question. Do not let two seconds go by. It's like Jeopardy! You have to buzz in the instant Alex finishes asking and not a moment after. Also, do not act like you're wandering your way to a denial on some technicality. Whether the charge is true or not, just say "Absolutely not" without hesitation or detours.)
It's all so sad. For everyone.
I am of the opinion, by the way, that Bob Costas may just be the best interviewer in broadcasting today. Having only microscopic interest in sports, I'm annoyed that he now works almost exclusively in that area. He's smart. He's fast. He's always thoroughly prepared for any conversation. And he's willing to ask tough questions and to do so with a minimum of theatrics. I've always enjoyed his non-sports interviews and I really wish he'd gone into Larry King's old time slot instead of that British guy no one is watching. Maybe some day…