Australian television network Channel 7 found itself at the centre of controversy after footage of a group of female dancers dressed as “sexy Santas” emerged from what was described as a routine staff meeting in Perth.
The incident occurred during a presentation by deputy news director Ray Kuka, who was discussing upcoming programming, including the airing of Perth’s annual Christmas pageant on December 7.As Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’ began to play, a group of female dancers in Santa hats and short red dresses took the stage, according to the New York Post.
A photo of the event was shared online, with one person commenting, “OMG – if they thought that was even slightly appropriate given everything we’ve found out about them, the cultural makeup of that organization is badly broken.” Another added, “That will help fix the culture issues which have been uncovered.” Reports indicate that some female staff members were so shocked that they walked out in protest.
A spokesman for Seven West Media defended the performance, explaining that the dancers were part of the Christmas Pageant, a longstanding “Perth institution”.
Recently, veteran Sydney reporter Robert Ovadia launched legal action in the Federal Court against the company, following his suspension on June 21 due to allegations of inappropriate conduct. Ovadia has claimed that Seven told him no complaints had been made against him. The network maintains that it takes allegations of sexual harassment, bullying, and other inappropriate behaviours “seriously”.
Seven West Media recently released its full-year financial results, which revealed a 65% drop in pre-tax profit to $67 million. The company’s shares have been volatile, particularly after an ABC investigation reported instances of misogynistic behaviour within multiple newsrooms at the network.
Ryan Stokes, managing director of Seven Group Holdings Ltd, said that inappropriate behaviour remains an “industry-wide problem” and that the network is committed to addressing these issues.
The incident occurred during a presentation by deputy news director Ray Kuka, who was discussing upcoming programming, including the airing of Perth’s annual Christmas pageant on December 7.As Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’ began to play, a group of female dancers in Santa hats and short red dresses took the stage, according to the New York Post.
A photo of the event was shared online, with one person commenting, “OMG – if they thought that was even slightly appropriate given everything we’ve found out about them, the cultural makeup of that organization is badly broken.” Another added, “That will help fix the culture issues which have been uncovered.” Reports indicate that some female staff members were so shocked that they walked out in protest.
A spokesman for Seven West Media defended the performance, explaining that the dancers were part of the Christmas Pageant, a longstanding “Perth institution”.
Recently, veteran Sydney reporter Robert Ovadia launched legal action in the Federal Court against the company, following his suspension on June 21 due to allegations of inappropriate conduct. Ovadia has claimed that Seven told him no complaints had been made against him. The network maintains that it takes allegations of sexual harassment, bullying, and other inappropriate behaviours “seriously”.
Seven West Media recently released its full-year financial results, which revealed a 65% drop in pre-tax profit to $67 million. The company’s shares have been volatile, particularly after an ABC investigation reported instances of misogynistic behaviour within multiple newsrooms at the network.
Ryan Stokes, managing director of Seven Group Holdings Ltd, said that inappropriate behaviour remains an “industry-wide problem” and that the network is committed to addressing these issues.
Source : Times of India
