Filmmaker Kate McGuinness has apologized for remarks made about mining magnate Gina Rinehart during an episode of ABC's 'Race Around The World.' The apology comes nearly three weeks after the program aired and followed significant backlash regarding the content.
McGuinness's latest film entry, titled 'A Very Relaxing Video,' which was submitted from Scotland, took a sharp turn in its final moments. The four-minute clip reportedly included a graphic description of assaulting Rinehart with a stick, with the stated aim to 'make one big sausage roll.' This segment has been described as disturbing and vile.
During the broadcast, guest panellist Leigh Sales, a presenter for the ABC, was the only judge to directly address the remarks, calling them 'nasty.' However, she also noted that she 'really liked' the film overall.
Initially, the ABC defended the segment, stating it was intended to be satirical and editorially justifiable within the program's context. The broadcaster has not yet apologized for the content or removed it from its online platforms, where it remains accessible.
On Thursday, the ABC released a statement on McGuinness's behalf, which the broadcaster indicated it supports. In the statement, McGuinness described the humor in her films as 'farcical' and clarified that her intention was not to promote violence. 'My writing is cartoonish and always satirical,' the statement read. 'Unfortunately, jokes do not land with everyone. Its purpose was never to be taken literally. I apologize to anyone I've offended.'
The ABC's ombudsman is currently conducting an independent review of audience complaints related to the episode, following the broadcaster's established complaints handling process. The ABC has stated it will not comment further while the review is ongoing.
A spokesperson for Gina Rinehart's company, Hancock Prospecting, previously criticized the video, calling it 'appalling material' that graphically described assault and torture. The spokesperson questioned the ABC's editorial responsibilities and Charter, suggesting a public apology and an investigation into who approved the segment for broadcast were warranted.
Communications Minister Anika Wells also commented on the matter, describing the content as 'unacceptable' from a personal standpoint. While respecting the ABC's editorial independence, she acknowledged the referral to the Ombudsman.