Content warning: this article discusses sexual abuse.
Radio stations all around the world have started to pull Michael Jackson‘s music from the airwaves, following the release of controversial new documentary Leaving Neverland.
Of course, the HBO documentary discusses the alleged abuse committed by Jackson against children. In the documentary, two men claimed that he sexually abused them for years.
According to SBS, Sydney’s Nova entertainment have removed the late Jackson from their programming, citing public opinion as the reason why.
“In light of what is happening at the moment, SmoothFM is not currently playing any Michael Jackson songs,” Nova’s programme director Paul Jackson reportedly said.
Australian Radio Network have also said that they are “closely monitoring audience sentiment in relation to individual artists.”
This move comes after the same thing has been done internationally. Several French-language Canadian stations have pulled MJ from air, as have the two major commercial networks in New Zealand.
If you need assistance, 1800 RESPECT – the National Sexual Assault, Domestic
and Family Violence Counselling Service — can be reached on 1800 737 732.
For help or information regarding mental health, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or
Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
