Oregon State Students Mock Reporter Olivia Cleary Live On Air With Viral ‘6-7’ Chants

A group of Oregon State University students interrupted sports reporter Olivia Cleary’s live halftime segment during Saturday’s Beavers game against Lafayette, shouting a viral “6-7” chant while one student shoved into her camera. The incident unfolded as Cleary, reporting for KEZI 9 News, discussed quarterback Malik Murphy’s offensive performance and the team’s rushing balance under Trent Walker, when several students forced their way into the broadcast frame.Despite the commotion, Cleary maintained her composure, continuing her analysis as the group mocked her and the network. Video footage shows her visibly blinking back tears while concluding her segment. “It’s just one of those moments you get through and stay focused,” she later told KEZI, calling it “part of the challenge of live reporting.”University Condemns Behaviour, Issues Apology to ReporterOregon State University released a statement Sunday condemning the students’ behaviour as “unacceptable and contrary to the values of respect and professionalism the university upholds.” The school confirmed it had launched a disciplinary review in coordination with event security and student affairs officials. “We have reached out directly to Ms. Cleary to extend our apology and full support,” the statement read.KEZI’s news director, Michelle Roberts, said Cleary “handled the situation with remarkable professionalism,” adding that the network stood “firmly behind her” and expected accountability from those involved. The clip has since garnered over 2.5 million views across X and TikTok, drawing outrage from journalists and viewers alike.Online Reaction Spurs Discussion on Gender and Respect in Sports JournalismSocial media reaction was swift, with many users denouncing the students’ behaviour as emblematic of the disrespect women in sports media often face. “She deserved professionalism and safety, not mockery,” wrote sports anchor Andrea Carter on X. Others debated the broader implications of fan entitlement and alcohol culture at college sporting events.The “6-7” chant — referencing a past season’s record meme — has circulated in college football circles as a trolling catchphrase. But this latest incident, critics say, underscores the ongoing vulnerability of on-field journalists working amid live crowds.