The veteran radio presenter has finally addressed the public regarding the situation that resulted in his suspension from the airwaves last month. In a comprehensive statement, he reached out to “my listeners, my colleagues, and the public” to offer clarity on the matter.
“On February 20th, an on-air disagreement with Jackie arose, centered around something that had been on my mind for some time. I acknowledge that I could have expressed myself differently,” Sandilands admitted.
He continued, “That evening, I reached out to Jackie, apologizing for any comments that might have been hurtful. I assured her of my affection and respect, and admitted that I could have managed the situation better. I stand by those sentiments wholeheartedly.”
Sandilands and Henderson have shared a professional journey for over 25 years. He expressed his anguish at the thought of their collaboration ending on such a note, calling it “devastating.”
Furthermore, Sandilands claimed that he has been prohibited from contacting Henderson or any of his colleagues, insisting that he has complied with all requests made of him.
He also criticized ARN for allegedly not allowing him the opportunity to resolve the issue with Henderson privately.
“All of this happened while I was being told to sit quietly and say nothing. That is not a genuine process,” Sandilands said.
“Jackie told me she was hurt, and I accept that. But we have had disagreements before and we have always worked through them. That is what partners do.
“We never needed lawyers or ASX announcements to sort things out.
“I believe we could have sorted this out too, if ARN had given us the chance.”
Sandilands then called on his employer ARN to reinstate him as co-host of the Kyle & Jackie O Show and again denied allegations he was in breach of his contract.
The 54-year-old signed a $100 million deal in 2024 to remain on the airwaves alongside his longtime colleague Henderson until 2034.
“I want to be on air. I want to be with my audience. I want to do the job I have done my entire adult life,” Sandilands continued.
“I am asking ARN to do the right thing: honour our agreement and let me get back to doing what I do best â entertaining the people who have supported this show for more than two decades.
“To my listeners: Thank you. I miss you. I’ll be back.”
Henderson officially exited the KIIS FM show on March 4 after an on-air argument with Sandilands.
She released a statement on Friday insisting she did not quit or resign from the Kyle and Jackie O Show.
“It has been truly heartbreaking to see how this has unfolded. At this stage, I am unable to say anything further, as I am addressing this through the appropriate legal channels,” Henderson said.
In addition to Henderson’s departure, ARN Media also announced that Sandilands could be out of the job if he does not prove within 14 days that he did not breach his contract for an alleged “act of serious misconduct” on that fateful show.
NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.
