James Hird has shared an update on Essendon that left the football world saddened. The information revealed left many feeling downcast across the AFL community.

The former Bombers coach opened up about a private matter. The personal news drew compassion from AFL fans.

The update comes after a leak controversy. Columnist Caroline Wilson was harsh on Hird and Eddie McGuire over what she called a conspiracy in her view.

Hird also spoke about a meeting that could bring an end to the club's coaching saga. The meeting was mentioned with no further details in the reports.

Together, the personal reveal and the meeting talk have sparked broad discussion.