Radio host Kyle Sandilands has publicly apologised to former co-host Jackie ‘O’ Henderson and expressed devastation over the potential end of their partnership, in his first comments since their on-air dispute led to Henderson's departure from the Kyle and Jackie O Show.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Sandilands revealed that the Australian Radio Network (ARN) had instructed him not to contact Henderson or colleagues after her contract was terminated on 3 March, the same day he received a two-week suspension. He accused ARN of failing to run a 'genuine process' before making the decision.
Sandilands described an argument on 20 February about an ongoing issue, saying he regretted some remarks and had apologised to Henderson that evening. 'I meant every word of that, and I still do,' he said, emphasising their 25-year working relationship and describing her as 'one of the most important people in my life'.
The radio host denied breaching his $100m contract, despite ARN's claims of 'serious misconduct'. He stated he was committed to his contract until 2034 and wanted to return to the airwaves. ARN had earlier told the ASX that Henderson gave notice she could not continue working with Sandilands, contradicting her own statement that she did not resign.
Sandilands acknowledged hurting his colleague but noted they had resolved disagreements before without legal involvement. He called on ARN to 'honour our agreement' and let him resume the show, which has been off air since Henderson's exit. The dispute reportedly stemmed from Sandilands mocking Henderson's interest in astrology during a broadcast.
