The Australian DJs who instigated the Royal Prank heard around the world will not be fired or punished for their actions which led to one woman taking her own life. Chief Executive of Southern Cross Austereo, Rhys Holleran is publicly defending Mel Greig and Michael Christian in the aftermath of Jacintha Saldanha's suicide.
Holleran explains the hosts meant no ill will when they called to check on Kate Middleton and it was just a prank. A stupid prank, but nothing malicious. He says, "I spoke to both presenters early this morning and it's fair to say they are completely shattered. These people aren't machines, they're human beings."
He goes on to say there is no way anybody could have ever imagined somebody would commit suicide over the seemingly harmless prank call. He also defends the business of prank calling and says it is a "craft" that has been going on for decades. So is murder, but does that make it okay? Sadly, the folks at the radio station knew this call was bordering on an invasion of privacy. Prior to airing the call, lawyers for the station listened to it to ensure there was nothing illegal about it.
While the world rages at Mel and Michael, there are some who are defending the duo and asking for sympathy for them. One man says, "I hope that both Mel and Michael are strong and firm. Nothing they did was offensive, it was a joke, a prank, never intended to have any ramifications of this sort." Others are offering their support to the DJs as well.
Despite a few coming out in support of the Djs, advertisers are panicking and pulling their spots from the station. This fiasco could ultimately cost the station its license as well. Numerous complaints have been filed with the Australia Communications and Media Authority. The ACMA is not prepared to release a statement about the situation yet and will only say they are currently working with the licensee.
Is this a situation being completely blown out of proportion or are the DJs responsible for the death of the woman they dragged into their royal prank?
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