Latrell Mitchell has finally ended his self-imposed media ban, fronting cameras for the first time in a long time and cracking jokes ahead of South Sydney’s round 10 game.
The enigmatic Rabbitohs superstar hadn’t spoken to media since 2024 after he landed in hot water for an expletive-laden Triple M interview and white powder scandal.
Mitchell’s extended absence from official media duties, which all other NRL players are obligated to fulfil, had started to draw criticism in recent weeks.
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The likes of James Maloney and Josh Morris had spoken out regarding Mitchell’s stance, but league great Timana Tahu earlier in the year defended the Bunnies centre.
But in a surprising turn of events, Mitchell – despite not being listed in the rundown sent by the club on Monday – turned up for a press conference on Tuesday morning.
Latrell Mitchell speaks to media. Nine
“Welcome to Trellevision,” the 28-year-old said as he walked in.
Mitchell was immediately asked what prompted him to end his media ban, explaining it was to honour long-time teammate Campbell Graham ahead of a milestone game.
“[I’m here] for Stretchy, big Campbell is playing his 150th this week and he’s one of my great mates and all-time teammates, I’m very proud of him,” he said.
“It’s a special occasion this week and I only want to talk on special occasions now.
“Campbell has been a very good teammate to me for a long time and I thought, what better time to come out and have a yarn.”
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The two-time premiership winner was asked questions about his future at the Rabbitohs beyond 2027 and potentially moving to the PNG Chiefs, delivering some one-line replies.
“Always gotta keep stuff from you guys,” he said.
“Who’s that? I didn’t even know, is that a team?
“I’ll leave that to my manager … South Sydney is where it’s at.”
Latrell Mitchell delivered an on-field speech on Anzac Day. NRL Imagery
While he was short and sharp regarding plenty of issues, the one thing Mitchell was keen to talk about was his teammates at Redfern after a good start to the season.
“I love every single one of them,” he said.
“They’ve all got their different traits and personalities and I connect with a lot of them.”
Mitchell also confirmed that he approached Wayne Bennett about a potential move back to the centres this season and said he “would play front-row” for the legendary coach.
The topic of representing NSW was also addressed, but Mitchell remained coy.
“I’ll see how we go … I haven’t spoken to Laurie (Daley),” he said.
“I love the Blues, it’s what we represent. When you put the blue on, it’s a different story.”
Latrell Mitchell during the 2025 series. Getty
He was also asked whether Graham could make his State of Origin debut later this month.
“Definitely, he’s been in the conversation for a few years,” Mitchell said.
“Campbell would do the job, he always does and he doesn’t complain, regardless of if he’s got one shoulder or one leg, he will keep going until that final hooter.”
Mitchell rounded out his presser being asked whether he had anything to get off his chest after remaining silent for so long, hinting at how happy he is right now.
“Not on camera – I’ll tell you later off record,” he smiled.
“I’m happy to be here, you can tell I’ve got a smile on my face.”
Souths will take on the Cronulla Sharks this weekend.
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