More than a decade after a prank call to a London hospital triggered international outrage and tragedy, Australian radio presenter Michael Christian is suing Southern Cross Austereo (SCA), claiming the broadcaster failed to protect and support him in the aftermath.
Christian was co-hosting 2Day FM’s breakfast show alongside Mel Greig in December 2012 when the pair placed an on-air prank call to King Edward VII Hospital, where the then-Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, was being treated for severe morning sickness.
Christian, who had only been on the job for two days, claims in a newly filed federal court lawsuit that he and Greig were instructed by the show’s production team to impersonate King Charles and Queen Elizabeth II to extract medical information.
The call was answered by nurse Jacintha Saldanha, who transferred the hoax call through to the Duchess’ attending nurse. Days later, Saldanha was found dead, having taken her own life. In a note left behind, she blamed the radio stunt and the hospital’s handling of the situation for her death.
The incident sparked a global media storm, intense public criticism and death threats directed at the hosts. Christian’s lawsuit alleges that SCA did little to shield them from the backlash.
According to the court documents, Christian was assured by the company that if any broadcast content crossed a line, SCA would “step in”.
His legal team claims that promise was broken: “The radio presenters were left by SCA as the convenient fall guys and scapegoats for SCA management decisions and non-compliance”.
Christian also alleges the prank violated the Australian Communication and Media Authority code of practice. The documents state that the reason for the long delay in taking legal action was SCA’s promise to restore Christian’s reputation and help rebuild his career – a promise he claims was never fulfilled.
His lawyers argue that the broadcaster failed to provide “meaningful health support”, initiate a public relations campaign to repair his public image, or offer career advancement or financial recognition for his continued loyalty.
The situation escalated earlier this year when Christian was made redundant by the company in February. He contends the redundancy was not genuine, stating, “SCA still requires (his) former role to be performed”.
Now, Christian is seeking financial compensation, damages, and penalties for what he describes as SCA’s negligence and breach of duty.
Southern Cross Austereo has not yet filed a defence but issued a brief public statement: “As the matter is currently before the courts, and out of respect for the legal process and the privacy of those involved, it would be inappropriate for us to comment at this time.”
A court date is yet to be set.
Image: Supplied
