Astrology Ban Emerges Post-Kyle & Jackie O Exit
The ripple effects of the dramatic departure of radio personalities Kyle Sandilands and Jackie "O" Henderson from KIIS FM are extending to station staff, with a notable incident involving Kent 'Smallzy' Small reportedly disciplining a colleague for discussing astrology. This development underscores a seemingly abrupt tightening of editorial lines at the station, particularly concerning "new age" topics.
The core of the matter appears to be a station-wide discouragement of discussions about astrology, directly stemming from the public falling out between Sandilands and Henderson, which was itself ignited by Sandilands' strong disapproval of Henderson's perceived "fixation" with the subject.
This recent episode, where Smallzy is said to have taken "particular issue" with a staffer mentioning astrology, suggests that such conversations are now strictly off-limits. Henderson, in her defense during the initial on-air dispute, reportedly stated, "I would never say things like that about you," highlighting a perceived double standard or an intense, yet unarticulated, sensitivity around the topic within the station's hierarchy. The implication is that the widely reported 'Kyle and Jackie O Show drama' has created a new, unspoken protocol at KIIS FM.
Staff Reactions and Network Position
Inside KIIS FM, the mood amongst staff appears to be one of resignation and perhaps a subdued sense of closure, with some admitting they will miss the dynamic of the long-running show.
Anonymous staff members have reportedly expressed feelings of being "overjoyed" at the end of the partnership, a sentiment that contrasts with the visible impact of the show's absence on the station's atmosphere. The future of the broadcast slot remains a point of speculation, with KIIS FM's parent company, ARN Media, having already issued official statements regarding the situation, likely to satisfy stock market disclosures. The network's stance is clear: the partnership has officially concluded.
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Background: The Explosive Split
The partnership of Kyle Sandilands and Jackie "O" Henderson, a fixture on Sydney airwaves for twenty-five years, imploded following a public on-air confrontation on February 20. The argument, which escalated rapidly, centered on Sandilands' accusations of Henderson's excessive phone use and a perceived "fixation" with astrology.
Following a seven-minute tirade from Sandilands, Henderson reportedly left the show shaken and in tears, failing to return the following Monday. This incident led to ARN Media pulling the show off-air and placing Sandilands on a two-week suspension, with the possibility of further repercussions. Henderson has apparently been offered an alternative show within the ARN network, while Sandilands is reportedly contemplating legal action against the company, alleging the grounds for his potential termination are unsubstantiated.
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The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has previously examined the KIIS network for repeatedly broadcasting vulgar and sexually explicit content, despite warnings. The financial implications of the show's removal are also a significant factor, with concerns raised about the station's ability to generate revenue without the popular, albeit controversial, duo. Various industry figures have suggested alternative programming, with some doubting the viability of a show centered solely around Sandilands. Smallzy has since taken over hosting duties for the KIIS breakfast slot.
