Kyle Sandilands has publicly apologised to his former co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson and expressed devastation over the potential end of their partnership, following a heated on-air argument that led to her contract termination and his suspension.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the KIIS FM host said he was told by the Australian Radio Network (ARN) not to contact Henderson after her exit from the $200m Kyle and Jackie O Show on 3 March. He accused ARN of failing to run a 'genuine process' before terminating her contract and suspending him for a fortnight.
Sandilands admitted he said things he wished he had said differently during the 20 February argument about her interest in astrology, and that he apologised to her that same evening. He described Henderson as one of the most important people in his life and said the idea of their partnership ending is 'devastating'.
ARN told the ASX that Henderson had given notice she could not continue working with Sandilands, and accused him of serious misconduct. However, Henderson later stated she did not quit or resign, contradicting ARN's explanation. Sandilands denied breaching his $100m contract, which runs until 2034, and urged ARN to honour their agreement and let him return to air.
He said he believes the dispute could have been resolved without lawyers or ASX announcements if ARN had given them a chance, as they have worked through disagreements before. Sandilands remains committed to his contract and wants to continue entertaining the audience that has supported the show for over two decades.
