Jackie 'O' Henderson has publicly stated she did not quit or resign from the Kyle and Jackie O Show, contradicting her employer's account. In a statement released through her manager, the radio host expressed deep sadness over the potential end of the programme, calling the recent events a shock.
The Australian Radio Network (ARN) had earlier told the stock exchange that Henderson gave notice she could not continue working with Kyle Sandilands, leading to the termination of her services agreement. ARN also accused Sandilands of serious misconduct and suspended him for 14 days.
Henderson's statement comes after a heated on-air exchange two weeks ago, during which Sandilands mocked her interest in astrology and accused her of being unfocused. She became emotional and did not return to work, prompting ARN to take the show off air.
Henderson indicated she is pursuing legal action, alleging widespread misinformation in the media. She said she is addressing the matter through appropriate legal channels and thanked supporters for their messages.
Both hosts signed record $100 million contracts in 2023 for a decade of breakfast shows. Sandilands remains under contract but faces potential termination if he fails to remedy his alleged breach. The broadcasting regulator is also expected to impose additional licence conditions on the Kiis network following findings of vulgar and offensive content.