Radio personality Kyle Sandilands has been observed filming a new project at his Vaucluse residence, marking his first public work activity since his departure from Australian Radio Network (ARN) in March. The media figure, aged 55, was seen on Friday with a production crew at his Sydney mansion, preparing for the shoot of an upcoming show tentatively titled Kyle Sandilands Live.
New Venture Emerges After Contract Settlement
Sandilands, known for his distinctive all-black attire, was photographed on the steps of his home as he greeted the film crew. Workers were seen transporting equipment cases, with many members of the production team also dressed in black. The crew’s attire featured jumpers branded with the logo of Sandilands’ new show.
This new venture is slated for an early August launch and is described as a subscription-based program featuring an ensemble cast, promising an ad-free and uncensored viewing experience. The announcement of Kyle Sandilands Live follows the resolution of a significant legal dispute between Sandilands and ARN. He reportedly accepted a settlement amount of $12.09 million, a fraction of the $85 million he had initially sought.
Potential Partnership with Karl Stefanovic
In related developments, Sandilands recently registered several website domain names, including ‘Kyle and Karl’ and ‘Karl and Kyle’, for himself and former television host Karl Stefanovic. These registrations, managed through Sandilands’ company, King Kyle Group Pty Ltd, suggest a potential collaboration between the two media personalities. Further registrations by King Kyle in 2024 for ‘themorningmen.com.au’ and ‘morningmen.com.au’ add weight to speculation about a joint project.
A source close to the personalities indicated to The Daily Telegraph that discussions about such a partnership have been ongoing for some time. Sandilands has reportedly maintained close contact with Stefanovic since Stefanovic’s exit from his television role last month.
Background of Sandilands’ Radio Departure
Sandilands’ exit from his long-standing radio role came after his $100 million contract with ARN was terminated. The decision followed an on-air disagreement with his former co-host, Jackie ‘O’ Henderson, concerning her focus on astrology. Their popular program, The Kyle & Jackie O Show, was subsequently cancelled, leading to the legal proceedings.
The settlement with ARN was reached shortly before a scheduled high-profile trial in Federal Court. As part of the agreement, ARN will provide $1.5 million in advertising support for Sandilands’ future media endeavors over a three-year period. ARN will also receive a 19.9 percent share of the revenue generated from these upcoming projects. Additionally, Sandilands is subject to a nine-month restriction on working with rival radio broadcasters.
Jackie ‘O’ Henderson’s Legal Action
Meanwhile, Jackie ‘O’ Henderson is pursuing her own legal action against ARN concerning her $100 million contract. Henderson initiated a Fair Work claim against the network in April, and her court battle is scheduled to commence on October 12. An interlocutory hearing, intended to address specific procedural matters, is set for August 24.
Conclusion
Kyle Sandilands’ recent filming activity signals a new chapter in his media career following his departure from ARN. The development, coupled with potential collaborations and ongoing legal matters involving his former co-host, highlights a period of significant transition for the prominent Australian broadcaster.
