The Daily Aus

The prank call that changed Aussie radio

Jul 9, 2025
A former radio host is suing his employer over a notorious prank call that brought devastating consequences. This incident, linked to a tragic event involving a nurse, rocked the Australian radio scene and raised questions about media ethics. The podcast explores how shock jock culture thrived in the early 2010s, fueled by social media. It also discusses regulatory shifts in broadcasting and the emotional fallout for those involved, highlighting a call for necessary reforms in the industry.
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INSIGHT

Shock Jock Culture and Regulation

  • Shock jock culture dominated Australian commercial radio in 2012, focusing on controversial content like prank calls.
  • The regulatory environment was lax, allowing prank calls to go on air with little restriction compared to places like the US.
INSIGHT

The Radio Prank Call That Sparked a Tragedy and Legal Battle

In 2012, Australian radio hosts Michael Christian and Mel Gregg made a prank call impersonating UK royalty to a London hospital treating Kate Middleton, which tragically led to the suicide of a nurse involved in the call.

The prank call, aired by Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) despite initial reluctance by the hosts, caused global outrage and profoundly impacted the lives of those involved. Christian alleges in current legal action that he was pressured by SCA to proceed with the call, left unsupported during the backlash, and unfairly dismissed in 2024.

This case exemplifies the once prevalent shock jock culture in Australian radio, the rise of controversial stunts for ratings, and the lasting changes in broadcast regulations and mental health awareness after the tragedy.

ANECDOTE

Royal Prank Call Tragedy

  • Michael Christian and Mel Gregg made a prank call to a London hospital impersonating Prince Charles and Queen Elizabeth.
  • The call led to private patient details being disclosed and contributed to a nurse's tragic suicide shortly after.
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