Imogen Anthony Stands By Kyle Sandilands Amidst On-Air Controversy and Suspension
Kyle Sandilands, a prominent figure in Australian radio, has found himself at the centre of a significant on-air dispute, leading to his temporary suspension. In the wake of the controversy, his ex-girlfriend, Imogen Anthony, has publicly voiced her unwavering support for the broadcaster. The couple, who shared an eight-year relationship before their split in 2019, remain close, with Anthony highlighting Sandilands’ positive impact beyond his professional life.
Anthony took to Instagram to share a heartfelt statement, addressing the public’s reaction and offering a personal perspective on Sandilands’ character. She emphasised that despite his occasional missteps in communication, Sandilands is a dedicated supporter of their shared passion: the welfare of rescued animals.
“With everyone hoping that Kyle gets cancelled, this man also still helps me look after over 100 rescued animals,” Anthony stated. She acknowledged that Sandilands “often says the wrong thing” but stressed her intimate understanding of his character, gained over nearly a decade together.
Furthermore, Anthony defended Sandilands’ professional relationship with his co-host, Jackie ‘O’ Henderson. She expressed her understanding of Henderson’s outspoken nature as an Aquarian, while also asserting that she has witnessed Sandilands’ consistent efforts to ensure Henderson was treated fairly throughout their long-standing partnership.
“I have also seen how much he has taken Jackie along every step of the way and ensured that she was treated fairly,” Anthony explained. Her statement conveyed a sense of distress for both individuals involved, expressing a hope for a swift resolution. “I’m upset for both of them to be completely honest and hope they can just snap the f–k out of it.”
Anthony, who is the proprietor of the Crimson Peak Animal Sanctuary in NSW’s Southern Highlands, underscored the paramount importance of animal safety and well-being. She reminded her followers of the deep significance these animals hold for both her and Sandilands, cautioning against wishing ill upon individuals.
“When you’re wishing ill upon someone today, remember who you’re choosing ill upon,” she urged. “He’s my best friend and I’ll defend him no matter what him and I have been through.”
The controversy stems from an on-air exchange between Sandilands and Henderson, which led to a formal statement from the Australian Radio Network (ARN). The network announced that Ms. Jacqueline Henderson had given notice that she “cannot continue to work with Mr Kyle Sandilands.”
In response to the incident, ARN revealed that Sandilands has been suspended for a period of two weeks, citing allegations of “an act of serious misconduct” and a breach of his contract. The network further stated that the show would be taken off-air immediately, and Sandilands has “14 days to remedy this breach” or face potential contract termination.
Sandilands himself acknowledged the situation, revealing on Tuesday that he had “signed off” on a formal statement expected to be released by “Jackie’s camp.” He indicated that he had been sidelined from the discussions and that the matter was now entirely in the hands of management. He candidly admitted, “I’m not the one putting out the fire, even though I lit the match.”
The on-air clash, which occurred on February 20th, reportedly escalated when Henderson began reading from an astrology birth chart. Sandilands’ reaction was strong, telling Henderson, “Your fixation on this has made you almost unworkable.” He further commented, “You are off with the fairies with this s–t, it’s mental.”
The dispute took a more sensitive turn when Sandilands allegedly likened Henderson’s focus on astrology to that of a “drug addict,” a comment that carried particular weight given Henderson’s past struggles with addiction. Sandilands reportedly stated, “You are not doing the rest of the job, and everyone in this building has mentioned it to me.” He continued, “You don’t know what the f–k is going on all the time, because you’re looking at that phone, playing in the stars, and it’s ridiculous.”
Sandilands and Henderson have forged a formidable partnership over 27 years, beginning their careers together by hosting the Top 30 on 2Day FM in 1999. They transitioned to a breakfast slot in 2005 and later moved to KIIS in 2014. Their current contract is a significant 10-year deal, reportedly worth $200 million, set to run until December 2034. The recent events have cast a shadow over this highly successful and long-standing radio collaboration.
