Michael Strahan Addresses National Anthem Backlash, I Wasn’t Making a Statement!

michael strahan is hitting back at the outrage over his stance during Sunday’s national anthem… claiming his hand position was simply a result of getting caught up in the moment.

The Giants great turned television personality released a lengthy video statement on the issue…making a political statement as the “Star-Spangled Banner” played during the Veterans Day-themed “Fox NFL Sunday” broadcast. from Naval Base San Diego, who strongly denied having done so.

Strahan explained that his deep respect for the military actually led to his pose…so surprised were the sailors who attended the event that all of the co-hosts put their hands on their hearts during the national anthem. He admitted he panicked because he played something he didn’t realize was there.

Strahan said he did so because he said it was best to respectfully keep his hands in front of him rather than risk looking like an “idiot” by changing mid-song to accommodate the other members.

The Hall of Famer scoffed at the idea that he lacked respect for the military. After all, he grew up on a military base and his family is full of people who have served their country.

As for his tense encounter with a reporter who tried to ask him questions about the matter outside his New York City representative office on Tuesday… Strahan expressed regret for his handling of the situation, but said he would leave his family and home alone. He said he would always protect it.