‘Overwhelming’: Cultural analysis of Nine reveals evidence of systemic problems

Sky News host Sharri Markson discusses the damning allegations of sexual misconduct and bullying at Nine Network and how the abuse of power was ‘covered up’ by the media company.

“Serious allegations, manipulation, sexual harassment, sexual intimidation, bullying and abuse of power, much of this horrific behavior has been covered up by the media company,” Ms Markson said.

“This external review was only commissioned after we revealed widespread and historic allegations of sexual harassment and a toxic culture on this show in May.”

Ms Markson explained how a Nine employee said he was groomed by an unnamed man and another member of staff cited in the report described inappropriate conduct and how it was covered up by a female employee.

The report found that company-wide, about a quarter of employees have experienced sexual harassment, and about 52 percent of them have witnessed or experienced an abuse of power or authority.

Despite the report’s findings, Nine’s biggest stars are furious. Acting CEO Matt Stanton said no one repeatedly brought up as part of the cultural review would be held accountable.

Sky News Australia understands 122 current and former Nine employees participated in the external investigation which included allegations of sexual harassment, misconduct and a toxic culture.