Kyle Sandilands has reached a settlement with ARN Media for more than $12m in cash plus support for his next project. The agreement ends a legal dispute that threatened to go to trial in the federal court.
Settlement Details
The settlement includes a cash payment of $12.09 million, with $3m payable next month and the remainder in monthly installments until June 2029. Additionally, ARN will provide $1.5 million worth of advertising services on its partner platforms over the next three years to support Sandilands' new media venture.
Sandilands had been seeking $85 million after his abrupt sacking from the network in February. The settlement avoids what could have been a costly and potentially damaging trial.
Non-Compete Clause
As part of the agreement, Sandilands is barred from appearing on any radio stations that compete with Kiis FM for nine months. He had previously expressed a desire to return to the airwaves at Kiis FM.
Revenue Sharing
Sandilands will share 19.9% of any revenue from his new show with ARN Media for three years. The company stated that Sandilands is pursuing independent media opportunities.
Henderson's Case Unresolved
Jackie 'O' Henderson, Sandilands' former co-host on Kiis FM's Breakfast Show, has not yet settled her separate legal action against ARN. She is seeking compensation of at least $82.25 million for wrongful termination of her 10-year contract. Henderson had complained to ARN about Sandilands allegedly bullying her on multiple occasions.
The legal dispute began after an on-air argument between the duo in February, leading Henderson to take immediate leave. On March 3, ARN announced the show would be taken off-air permanently.
ARN CEO Michael Stephenson said the agreement brings certainty for the company and resolves the legal dispute. "ARN remains focused on executing its strategy, including driving a leaner, more efficient operating model," he said.
