AFL great Barry Hall has apologised for vulgar comments he made on live radio, saying it was "a silly thing to say and not a reflection of who I am".

Triple M sacked Hall immediately after his remarks to co-commentator Leigh Montagna during a pre-game chat at Friday night's clash between the Western Bulldogs and Geelong, in which he commented about the impending birth of Montagna's child.

"I am sorry, I should not have said such an inappropriate comment on air and hope I can be forgiven and move forward from here," Hall told News Corp Australia.

"I am a proud father and dedicated partner and have nothing but respect for women."

Montagna's wife Erin is due to give birth to the couple's first baby next week.

"Tonight on Triple M Football, there were unacceptable and inappropriate comments made by a member of the commentary team," head of content Mike Fitzpatrick said in a statement.

"The commentator was removed immediately from the broadcast and an apology was issued on air afterwards.

"Immediate action was taken with the termination of employment for one team member."

Reaction on social media was swift, with most choosing not to repeat the comment due to its inappropriate nature.

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Hall was said to be filling in for Chris Judd during the broadcast.

Considered one of the best forwards of the modern era, the 41-year-old played 289 games for St Kilda, Sydney and the Bulldogs, kicking 746 goals and becoming the first player to kick 100 goals with three different clubs.

He also captained the Swans to their 2005 premiership but his career was marred by a number of high-profile, on-field incidents.

Hall became a television and radio commentator after his retirement from the game in 2011.

AAP/ABC