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An AFL star shocked fans by claiming the coronavirus pandemic 'isn't 'a big thing' as Melbourne's latest outbreak worsens.
North Melbourne midfielder Jaidyn Stephenson, 22, has since backtracked and apologised for his 'ill-informed' comments while hosting a Q and A session with fans on his Instagram account on Wednesday night.
Stephenson claimed the pandemic was exaggerated by the media on a day Victoria recorded 10 new locally-acquired cases, amid fears Melbourne could be plunged into a fifth lockdown.
He urged fans during an online forum to ask him anything non-football when one quizzed him about his thoughts on Covid-19 vaccination.
Yong AFL star Jaidyn Stephenson (pictured with his mum) is no stranger to controversy
Stephenson showed no hesitation in weighing into the debate with his divisive views.
'Okay, pretty topical. I don't think some will like this answer,' Stephenson began.
'But I think the media overplays it a lot.
'If there's no media, then I don't think COVID's such a big thing. It's just my opinion - I don't want any replies.'
He quickly deleted the video and issued a grovelling apology,
