Danny Weidler an iconic name in NRL Journalism

Steve "Chimes" Gillis goes into the mind of leading NRL reporter Danny Weidler, talking the transition from print to television, the art of the "cold call," and why being banned by clubs like the Roosters and Bulldogs is just part of the job.

From the Steelers to the Small Screen

The episode kicks off with a trip down memory lane, as Steve and Danny reminisce about the early days of their careers. Steve recalls driving a young, persistent Danny down to Wollongong to cover the Illawarra Steelers, noting that even then, Weidler was a "top secret" man who kept his copy under wraps. Danny credits his start to a simple list he wrote as a child, where "sports journalist" was the top priority. Coming from a family of European immigrants who knew nothing of rugby league, Danny had to carve his own path, eventually cold-calling legends like Russell Fairfax and Peter Peters to land his first roles at Big League and local newspapers.

The Art of the Scoop: Mundine, SBW, and the "Bouncer" Label

Danny reflects on the contacts that defined his career, particularly his unique bond with Anthony Mundine. He describes how Mundine, often a polarizing figure, gave him the "inside running" on massive stories like Solomon Haumono's departure for love. This relationship, while beneficial for his career, often led to public backlash from those who disliked Danny giving Mundine a voice.

The conversation shifts to Danny’s jump to television in 2004, a move orchestrated by David Gyngell. Danny admitted he felt he was the "last person who should be on TV," a sentiment hilariously echoed by a Channel 9 stylist who, upon meeting him, asked why they had brought her a "nightclub bouncer." Despite the "vicious" potshots from rival newspapers during his transition, Danny has spent 21 years at Nine, learning to balance his television duties with his long-running column.

Dealing with Bans and Threats

Being one of the most recognizable "news hounds" in the game comes with its share of conflict. Danny discusses being banned by numerous clubs, including the Roosters and the Bulldogs, often for simply being "too close" to the truth. He reveals that he has faced physical threats and social media vitriol, but as an self-described "introverted and shy" person, he handles it by staying professional and "fronting" players and coaches every day. "I'd rather miss a story than be wrong," Danny says, defending his conservative approach to reporting despite his reputation as a "cowboy."

Scandals and the "Old Days" vs. Social Media

The guys touch on some of the wildest scandals Danny has broken, from Julian O'Neal’s infamous "shoe incident" to the bizarre story of Todd Carney and the "bubbler." Danny shares the logistical nightmare of interviewing Carney while he was hiding from other news crews, eventually meeting him in a park after Carney escaped his apartment in the boot of a car. Reflecting on the "wilder" days of the 80s and 90s, Danny admits he prefers the era before social media and camera phones, where stories had time to breathe before being "blown" in an instant online.

Future of the Game: PNG and Expansion

Looking ahead, Danny shares his skepticism regarding the NRL's push into Papua New Guinea, labeling it "danger, danger, danger." While he is a fan of Peter V’landys' general leadership, he questions some of the game's recent appointments and the feasibility of a PNG franchise. As for his own future, Danny remains committed to the grind, joking that he will work "until they sack me" to support his family and continue chasing the next big story.

Watch the full interview on Fanatics TV.