Jackie O Henderson Files $82 Million Lawsuit Against ARN After On-Air Dispute with Kyle Sandilands
The legal battle involving radio personalities Kyle Sandilands and Jackie O Henderson has intensified, with Henderson now taking legal action against their former employer. On Tuesday morning, Henderson initiated proceedings by filing a lawsuit against the Commonwealth Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), a subsidiary of Australian Radio National (ARN) and the licence holder for KIIS 106.5.
Background of the On-Air Spat and Complaint
An on-air argument with her long-time radio partner Kyle Sandilands on February 20 prompted Henderson to walk off the air. Subsequently, she submitted a formal complaint letter to CBC. In the letter, Henderson stated that she cannot continue to work with Sandilands and raised concerns regarding psychosocial health and safety, as well as bullying allegations related to Sandilands.
Legal Claims and Allegations
According to an ARN investors notice, Henderson's lawsuit asserts that her complaint letter involved the exercise or proposal to exercise workplace rights. It further alleges that her subsequent dismissal was a direct result of this action, potentially violating provisions of the Fair Work Act. Henderson also contends that ARN's market announcement on March 3, which reported the departure of both personalities, included misleading and deceptive statements.
ARN has responded to the claims, stating, The applicants claim compensation of 'at least $82,250,000' and payment of a pecuniary penalty, plus interest and costs. The company disputes these allegations and has announced its intention to defend the proceedings vigorously.
Comparison with Kyle Sandilands' Legal Action
Henderson's substantial compensation claim of over $82 million follows closely on the heels of a separate $85 million lawsuit filed by Kyle Sandilands against ARN. Sandilands, often referred to as the king of radio, appeared in court last week to seek the remainder of his $100 million contract. During the proceedings, Sandilands remarked, I didn't do anything different than I've been doing for 25 years. It's actually a little bit tamer than most days because I was actually quite concerned that, you know, she's feeling good and everything's OK. I just want to get back to work or earning. I've got a family; I've got mortgages like everyone else.
Upcoming Court Proceedings
The judge has allocated five days in June for court proceedings to hear the matter, indicating the complexity and significance of the case. This legal escalation highlights ongoing tensions in the radio industry and raises important questions about workplace rights and contractual disputes in high-profile media roles.
