2GB has terminated the services of broadcaster Chris Smith.
Smith’s termination follows the Sky News Christmas party over the weekend, where Smith admitted his behaviour was unacceptable, “apologising profusely” for his “drunken treatment” of women. He has since been suspended by Sky News.
Tom Malone, Nine’s managing director of radio, said in a statement: “Chris’ behaviour represents a serious breach of his contract and is not aligned with the values of 2GB.”
Nine has provided support to Smith in recent days and will continue to offer that support as required.
On Saturday, Smith was with colleagues at the Sky Christmas party at The Ivy Sunroom and later continued with them at The Establishment, according to The Daily Telegraph.
A number of eyewitnesses alleged that Smith made lewd comments to female colleagues, inappropriately touched more than one woman, left one in tears as another was forced to strike him.
The publication noted that Smith has no recollection of the events, blaming his bipolar disorder and alcohol addiction, which outlet added was a similar explanation he provided for allegedly harassing four female colleagues at the 2GB Christmas party in 2009.
Smith has since been suspended by Sky News. A Sky News spokesman said in a statement: “The person involved has been suspended while an investigation into the allegations is undertaken.
“The welfare of our staff is our absolute priority. We have a zero-tolerance approach to inappropriate conduct and take these allegations very seriously. There will be no further comment while the investigation is carried out.”
Smith has also put out his own statement and revealed that he is seeking professional help at a facility. He told The Daily Telegraph: “I am beyond gutted and devastated to know I have upset my colleagues after our Christmas party.
“I apologise profusely to the women I upset. That’s not the man I am at work, ever, as they will all attest. They have been so supportive to me and do not deserve such drunken treatment.”
“I have a recurring problem with alcohol … it sends me manic. I am in a facility receiving professional help to deal conclusively with my abuse of alcohol and solve this once and for all, without qualification… it can and will be done.”
“I am also terribly upset about humiliating myself with people I respect and admire. I have been blessed to call them close colleagues,” Smith said.
“I pride myself on my professionalism and work ethic but I have dropped the ball and embarrassed many people including those I love most – my family. I am very sorry,” Smith said.
Smith is married to nutritionist Susie Burrell and are parents to twin sons.
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Top image: Chris Smith