2GB's Ray Hadley apologises 'for any hurt' after bullying accusations
Macquarie Media's 2GB radio host Ray Hadley has responded to accusations of bullying from a former colleague, apologising "for any hurt" while defending himself and describing their relationship as like a father and son.
Hadley’s former long-time producer Chris Bowen recently criticised the Sydney-based radio shock jock in a lengthy Facebook post complaining of "vile" treatment he claims he experienced at work.
Mr Bowen resigned from 2GB two years ago and, he said in the post, has suffered mental health problems for "a number of years".
After seeking treatment he said psychiatric advice had pointed towards to causes including trauma, such as his parents dying, and bullying he said was experienced in his previous job from the highly popular broadcaster.
"I can't bring myself to name the person, because even with my new found clarity and insight I fear their unpredictability. This person is incredibly intelligent, a pure genius at getting out of a sticky spot. Plus is backed by much more coin then me," he said.
Nine Entertainment Co has a 54.5 per cent stake in Macquarie and is looking to buy the remaining shares in the radio broadcaster. Nine is the owner of this masthead.
On Monday morning, Hadley told listeners that Mr Bowen had accused him of "systemic bullying".
"Now given I've previously admitted my shortcomings earlier in my career I feel obliged to defend myself here," he said.
"Through our years together we became very close, probably more like a father and son relationship and given what he had to deal with personally I tried as best I could to try him through some very difficult situations. At times our relationship could be volatile, he would go off and so could I."
He said one of the "saddest parts" of his life as a broadcaster was the end of their relationship only a couple of years after Hadley was MC at his wedding where he said Mr Bowen had said "some very generous and kind things about me and our relationship".
I'm sorry for any hurt I've caused him.
Ray Hadley
"I'm sorry for any hurt I've caused him," Mr Hadley said.
Mr Bowen said he complained "as far back as 2008" and was removed from the show for a short period of time after sending an email about his concerns.
"But complaining was about as effective as setting yourself on fire," he said.
A spokesman for Macquarie Media said all staff were required to behave in line with their policy and report any matters of concern, which were investigated confidentially and discussed with those involved.
"Other than what has been published on social media, we are not aware of any complaints having been made in relation to the matters raised by Chris Bowen, and would once again invite any complaints or concerns to be raised directly with the station to ensure that they can be dealt with promptly and fairly," he said.
Mr Bowen said Hadley's on-air statement "falls into a category known as 'gaslighting' and I reject it".