Settlement Reached Between Kyle Sandilands and ARN Media
Kyle Sandilands has resolved his dispute with ARN Media through a settlement that includes a $12.09 million cash payment and a commitment from ARN to assist him in launching a new media venture.
The settlement amount represents a portion of the $85 million Sandilands initially sought following his sudden dismissal from the network in February. This agreement prevents what could have been an expensive and potentially damaging federal court trial.
Legal Actions by Sandilands and Jackie Henderson
Both Sandilands and his co-host on Kiis FM’s Breakfast Show, Jackie “O” Henderson, initiated separate legal proceedings against ARN after their 10-year contracts were terminated after just one year. Henderson’s legal case remains unresolved.
ARN Media, the licensee for Kiis FM, announced in a statement to the stock exchange on Wednesday that a binding settlement had been finalized with Sandilands. This agreement concludes all claims and counterclaims filed in federal court.
The settlement also ends all prior associations Sandilands had with the station. Notably, Sandilands had expressed a desire in court to return to on-air duties at Kiis FM.
Restrictions and Future Media Opportunities
ARN Media disclosed that Sandilands is prohibited from appearing on any radio stations competing with Kiis FM for a period of nine months.
The company further stated that Sandilands is pursuing "independent media opportunities" and that ARN has agreed to provide advertising support for his new venture on its radio platforms.
The financial terms of the deal include a cash settlement of $12.09 million, with $3 million payable next month and the remaining balance distributed monthly until June 2029.
"Mr Sandilands has advised ARN that he intends to pursue independent media opportunities," the announcement to the ASX said.
"As part of the settlement, ARN will provide Mr Sandilands with advertising services on ARN’s partner platforms of $1,500,000 over the next three years."
Additionally, Sandilands will share 19.9% of any revenue generated from his new show with ARN Media for a duration of three years.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings with Jackie Henderson
While Sandilands’ dispute has been settled, ARN confirmed that Henderson’s legal proceedings are still active.
Henderson is seeking damages of "at least $82,250,000" for wrongful termination of her 10-year contract. She has alleged in court that she reported instances of bullying by Sandilands to ARN on multiple occasions.
The legal conflict originated after an on-air argument between Sandilands and Henderson, which led Henderson to take immediate leave.
On 3 March, ARN announced that the duo’s breakfast show would be discontinued after Henderson stated she could no longer work with her on-air partner of 25 years.
ARN’s Response and Future Focus
Michael Stephenson, ARN’s chief executive officer, commented on the settlement, emphasizing the certainty it brings to the company and the resolution of the legal dispute.
"ARN remains focused on executing its strategy, including driving a leaner, more efficient," Stephenson said.
