Former radio host sues employer over 2012 royal prank call

A radio host who took part in a 2012 prank call to a London hospital where Kate Middleton was being treated is taking legal action against his former employer. Michael Christian and Mel Greig were presenting on 2Day FM, owned by Southern Cross Austereo, on December 4, 2012, when they made a call to King Edward VII hospital and obtained private medical information about the now-Princess of Wales.

During the pre-recorded call, Christian and Greig impersonated King Charles III and Queen Elizabeth II. Jacintha Saldanha, the nurse who transferred the call, took her own life several days later. Christian is now suing SCA for physical and psychological distress and alleges he and his co-host Greig were left exposed to relentless public vitriol, harassment, and abuse following Saldanha's death.

Christian started as a presenter on Sydney's 2Day FM just two days before the incident. He alleges the pair initially objected to making the call and then to broadcasting the recording, however said their concerns fell on deaf ears. His lawyers allege Christian's career suffered as a result of the backlash.

Christian left SCA in February after his employment was terminated and alleges he was asked to sign a legal deed to prevent him from speaking out, which he refused. He is suing the media giant under the Fair Work Act, the Corporations Act as a whistleblower, and under the Common Law Act for breach of contract. The matter has not yet appeared before the Federal Court.

In a statement to 9news.com.au, Southern Cross Austereo said: '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.'

According to the source: 9News.