Channel 7 journalist Robert Ovadia has been sacked by the network after it launched an internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour.
The Australian’s Media Writer Sophie Elsworth says Channel Seven “would not comment” on if outgoing director of news and public affairs, Craig McPherson resignation was related to the misnaming of the Bondi Junction attacker.
“I did ask Seven today because their news boss Craig McPherson has left,” she said.
“The timing is very curious.
“I asked Seven if the timing was anything to do with the Bondi Junction stuff up.
“A Seven spokesman would not comment.”
Mr Ovadia, who is based in Sydney, told The Australian on Friday he had been axed from the network.
The veteran journalist had worked for Channel Seven for 23 years.
Channel 7 reporter Robert Ovadia has been sacked by the network. Picture : NCA NewsWire / Nicki Connolly.
The network earlier this month revealed Mr Ovadia had been placed on leave pending an investigation. Picture: Seven.
“Yes I’ve been sacked and there will be more to say about that in the appropriate forum at the appropriate time,” Mr Ovadia told The Australian.
Seven revealed earlier this month the network was “conducting an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour”.
The Australian later reported the matter involved emails from four years ago – the contents of which are unknown – exchanged between Mr Ovadia and a former Seven female employee.
Loading embed…
Mr Ovadia has previously labelled the allegations “malicious” and said he would defend himself.
He engaged lawyer John Laxon to represent him.
It follows the departure of multiple Seven employees including Sydney news director Neil Warren, Sydney chief of staff Andrew Frampton, Melbourne news director Shaun Menegola and crime reporter Cameron Baud.
It also comes after Anthony De Ceglie’s appointment as Seven West Media’s new director of news and current affairs, as well as editor-in-chief.