Nine executive reprimanded for declaring intoxication before the Logies event and accusations of lewd, explicit communication concerning Jimmy Barnes
Channel Nine Faces Outrage Over Amy McCarthy's Controversial Logie Awards Comments
Amy McCarthy, the executive producer of A Current Affair, has found herself at the centre of a storm after posting questionable comments on Facebook during the Logie Awards. McCarthy's comments, which included stating she could get drunk at the event and making a suggestive comment about Jimmy Barnes, have sparked outrage and are considered out of step with Nine's cultural review.
The network boss, who acknowledged that commercial arrangements, sponsorships, and endorsements exist at most media companies, including Nine, has taken action. Nine's director of news and current affairs, Fiona Dear, sent an email reminder to all staff about their professional obligations. The email, sighted by Daily Mail Australia, was a reminder for broadcast journalists and on-air talent to maintain trust with the viewing public.
However, there are no publicly available detailed documents or official statements specifying Channel Nine’s exact social media policies regarding inappropriate posts by on-air talent, including those related to incidents such as Amy McCarthy's comments at the Logie Awards. While general career and company culture information from Nine Careers highlights their commitment to responsibility, respect, and innovation, no specific social media rules or disciplinary procedures have been made public.
The MEAA Journalist Code of Ethics, which applies to journalist members of the MEAA, was also mentioned as a professional standard for journalists. This incident comes just months after Channel Nine reportedly cracked down on staffers following the dismissal of Today presenter Alex Cullen. Cullen, 44, lost his job at the station in January after accepting $50,000 from Block bidder Adrian 'Mr Lambo' Portelli.
One insider from Channel Nine told The Australian that McCarthy's comments are inappropriate, using Delta Goodrem as an example of how inappropriate it would be for a male news boss to make similar comments about a female singer. The comments have raised questions about the network's handling of such incidents and its commitment to maintaining a professional environment.
It is important to note that these arrangements are permitted in certain circumstances, provided the appropriate disclosure occurs and that they are conducted in accordance with Nine's policies and procedures. All Nine Group employees are required to adhere to these policies and remain up to date with any developments.
The Commercial Television Industry Code of Practice, and Nine's Social Media Guidelines and Gift Policy, also outline the professional and ethical guidelines that all staffers are obliged to conduct themselves along. The reminder was a reiteration of these guidelines, emphasising the importance of maintaining trust with the viewing public and adhering to the network's brand values of respect and responsibility.
Despite the lack of detailed public policy documents, it is clear that Channel Nine is taking steps to address the issue. McCarthy later stated that her phone died before any evidence could be recorded, but the damage has already been done. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what action, if any, will be taken against McCarthy.
- Social media posts by on-air talent, such as Amy McCarthy's controversial Logie Awards comments, can spark outrage and raise questions about a network's commitment to maintaining a professional environment.
- Nine's Social Media Guidelines and Gift Policy, as well as the Commercial Television Industry Code of Practice, outline the professional and ethical guidelines that all staffers must adhere to.
- The incident has highlighted the need for Channel Nine to clarify and enforce its policies regarding inappropriate social media posts by on-air talent, with no publicly available detailed documents or official statements available at this time.
