An Australian television network has been plunged into controversy after publishing a deeply insensitive TikTok video that used upbeat, celebratory music over footage of a devastating earthquake that killed 20 people.
Channel 10 was forced into a humiliating retreat, deleting the video after widespread public outrage. The ill-conceived post featured footage of the catastrophic earthquake that struck Indonesia's Sumatra island, overlaid with the track 'I'm Good (Blue)' by David Guetta and Bebe Rexha - a wildly inappropriate choice given the tragic context.
Social Media Backlash Erupts
The video, which appeared on the network's official TikTok account, immediately sparked fury among viewers. Social media users condemned the post as "disgusting," "tone-deaf," and "completely lacking in basic human decency."
One horrified commenter wrote: "Using a party anthem while showing people who lost everything and 20 who lost their lives? Have you no shame?" Another added: "This is beyond insensitive - it's a complete failure of editorial judgment."
Connection to Reality Star Adds to Controversy
Compounding the embarrassment for Channel 10, the video was reportedly posted by a staff member linked to Abbie Chatfield, the popular Australian media personality. Sources indicate the post was created by Ms Chatfield's boyfriend, who works within the network's social media team.
The connection to the high-profile reality TV star has added fuel to the fire, with many questioning the professionalism and oversight within Channel 10's digital content department.
Network Issues Apology
Following the backlash, Channel 10 issued a statement acknowledging the grave error. "The video was removed as soon as senior management became aware of it," a network spokesperson confirmed. "We deeply apologise for this serious lapse in judgment and the distress it has caused."
The incident has raised serious questions about social media protocols in news organisations and the pressure to create engaging content at the expense of basic sensitivity, particularly when covering human tragedies.
Media ethics experts have described the incident as a "textbook example of what not to do" when covering natural disasters and loss of life, highlighting the need for stricter controls over social media content in broadcast organisations.
