Kyle Sandilands has launched a legal challenge against his dismissal from ARN Media, arguing in the Federal Court that his termination was invalid because he was performing his contracted role as a “robust character” on the Kiis FM breakfast show. The shock jock’s statement of claim, filed on Friday, contends that the on-air argument with co-host Jackie “O” Henderson that triggered his sacking was “congruent with the style, tone and nature of the show”.
ARN Media terminated Sandilands’ contract, worth an estimated $100 million over its full term, last week following a dispute over Henderson’s interest in astrology. The company cited serious misconduct and a breach of the services agreement with Quasar Media, depriving Sandilands of the remaining $85 million he would have earned through to 2034.
The statement of claim describes The Kyle & Jackie O Show as a high-energy, controversial program featuring crude humour, ribald commentary and sexual innuendo. It asserts that ARN Media acknowledged Sandilands’ “robust character” and desired him to present in that style. The document notes that banter and tension between the hosts were central to the show, with Sandilands playing the dominant, abrasive personality and Henderson the moderating role.
Sandilands’ legal team, led by Scott Robertson SC and Philip Boncardo, argues that the incident does not constitute a serious or consistent breach of contract, nor did it cause “serious and imminent injury” to Kiis FM as alleged. They point out that the two censors monitoring the program did not use the dump button during the segment in question.
ARN Media responded in an ASX filing on Monday, stating it would defend the claim. The company said Sandilands seeks orders for specific performance of his contract, payment of amounts due, and damages. ARN disputes the claims and cannot estimate the outcome or financial impact at this early stage.
Under the agreement, Sandilands was entitled to $7.4 million in cash annually, plus a consultancy fee, flight allowance, and contra air time. The program has become less profitable amid an advertising downturn, a grassroots campaign against its content, and regulatory pressure.
