Advertisers pull support from Kyle and Jackie O amid misogyny claims

In Australia, the Kyle & Jackie O Show has faced significant backlash due to claims that its content normalizes violent misogyny. The grassroots activist group Mad Fucking Witches initiated a campaign in May 2024, coinciding with the show's expansion into Melbourne. The campaign specifically targeted co-host Kyle Sandilands, who made controversial remarks during a recent episode, further fueling the controversy surrounding the program. As a result of the campaign, several high-profile advertisers, including AMP, Bendigo Bank, Flight Centre, and Australian Super, have confirmed they are either reviewing or have ceased their advertising with the show. This shift reflects a growing concern among advertisers about the show's content and its alignment with their corporate values. Bendigo Bank explicitly stated that it discontinued advertising due to ethical considerations. The impact of the campaign has been significant, with reports indicating that the number of advertisers has dropped from over 100 to approximately 70. The show has also experienced a decline in ratings, particularly in the Melbourne market, where it fell to a share of just 5.2% during the July to September period. ARN's chief content officer acknowledged the need for changes in the show's content, stating that it had been overly sexualized. While the show remains popular with a large audience, the ongoing controversy and advertiser response highlight the challenges it faces in maintaining its market position amid growing scrutiny over its content.