The chief executive of Sky News Angelos Frangopoulos yesterday sacked contributor Mark Latham. Frangopoulos tweeted late in the afternoon Latham’s contract had been terminated following a number of comments ridiculing Sky News’ colleagues and more recently Sydney ABC broadcaster Wendy Harmer. He also made comments, labelled inappropriate and bullying, about a Sydney schoolboy.
A Twitter account, @RealMarkLatham, previously used by Latham was activated for the first time yesterday in over 18 months. One of those tweets said: “Sky execs gave Outsiders [One of Latham’s regular Sky News’ programs] every encouragement, always urging us on (love ratings), so thanks for everything, up to point of thrown under bus”.
After hearing the news yesterday, Wendy Harmer commented: “Never tried to get Mark sacked. Just, as I said, a simple apology for a wrongful statement.” She then added: “And I DO NOT CONDONE the nasty stuff on Twitter. He, like me, has a family who will find it very hurtful.”