The fallout from an on-air incident continues to unfold as KIIS FM’s parent company, ARN Media, has filed a lawsuit seeking millions from former hosts Kyle Sandilands and Jackie Henderson. This move comes as the Federal Court prepares for a case management hearing on April 24, 2026, regarding Sandilands' separate claim against ARN.
The core of the legal entanglement revolves around contract terminations and alleged misconduct following a public on-air spat between Sandilands and Henderson. ARN asserts Sandilands committed serious misconduct, justifying his dismissal. However, Sandilands contests this, arguing his termination was improper and seeking damages for economic and non-economic losses. His filing specifically challenges the notion that his conduct was "persistent," pointing to a roughly 20-minute incident on a single day.
Henderson's Allegations Surface
Further complicating the situation, Henderson, through her legal representatives, has accused Sandilands of "systemic bullying," belittling, and humiliation on-air, stating it left her psychologically unwell. Documents reveal Henderson sent a text message to the head of KIIS FM five months prior to walking off air, noting listener complaints about an "abusive relationship" between the co-hosts. Henderson's lawyers assert she did not resign, but rather refused to continue working with Sandilands after an on-air confrontation on February 20, 2026, which reportedly left her in tears.
Read More: Radio host Kyle Sandilands sues ARN Media for $160 million
The Counterclaims and Contractual Nuances
ARN’s defence to Sandilands' claim includes reference to a letter from Henderson’s lawyers following the February 20 incident. ARN subsequently terminated Henderson’s contract on March 31, 2026, citing her alleged refusal to work with Sandilands. This action by ARN is also now the subject of Henderson's lawsuit against the network, which she commenced challenging her own contract termination. Sandilands, meanwhile, has been publicly critical of the legal strategy, suggesting it's "bullshit." His chances of returning to KIIS FM appear to be diminishing as the legal proceedings intensify.
Background of the Dispute
The current legal imbroglio stems from an on-air exchange on KIIS FM that led to Sandilands' dismissal and Henderson's subsequent departure from the program. Sandilands has publicly stated he "suffered humiliation" due to his sacking. Both hosts had separate contracts with ARN. The network's decision to terminate Sandilands was made last month by ARN chief executive Michael Stephenson. The court is expected to address these competing claims in the coming sessions.
Read More: 4 Top Lawyers Leave Paul, Weiss After $40M Deal With Trump Admin
