James Hird has shared an update on Essendon that left the football world saddened. The information revealed struck a somber chord across the AFL community.

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

The update follows a leak scandal. 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 received attention with few specifics disclosed.

Together, the personal reveal and the meeting talk have been widely discussed.