Kyle Sandilands has told the Federal Court that his $100 million contract with Kiis FM was wrongfully terminated, arguing his on-air behaviour was within the scope of his role as a 'robust character' on a 'deliberately provocative' show. The shock jock was sacked by ARN Media last week after an on-air argument with co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson about astrology, which the company deemed serious misconduct and a breach of contract.
Sandilands' statement of claim, filed on Friday, asserts that the termination deprived him of the remaining $85 million he would have earned under the contract, which was set to run until 2034. The document describes the Kyle & Jackie O Show as a high-energy, controversial program featuring crude humour, ribald commentary, and sexual innuendo, with Sandilands playing the dominant, abrasive personality while Henderson acted as a moderating influence.
The claim argues that the exchange that triggered the termination was 'congruent with the style, tone and nature of the show' and does not constitute a serious or consistent breach of contract. It also notes that two censors monitoring the show for decency breaches 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 disputes the allegations and says it is unable to estimate the outcome or potential financial impact at this early stage. Under the contract, Sandilands was entitled to $7.4 million in cash annually, plus a consultancy fee, flight allowance, and contra air time.
Sandilands is seeking a court order declaring the termination invalid, along with damages for economic and non-economic loss. The case highlights ongoing tensions around the show, which has faced declining profitability due to an advertising downturn, a grassroots campaign against its content, and increased regulatory scrutiny.
