Jackie O's Manager Addresses Relapse Rumors Amidst Business Disputes
Gemma O'Neill offered a veiled response to speculation about Jackie O's sobriety, as reports emerge of a legal battle involving Karl Stefanovic and Keshnee Kemp.
Jackie O's manager, Gemma O'Neill, has provided a cryptic response when questioned about rumors concerning the radio personality's sobriety. O'Neill's statement comes as further details surface regarding a dispute between Karl Stefanovic and his podcast business partner, Keshnee Kemp.
When approached for comment on speculation that Jackie O, whose real name is Jackie Henderson, might be drinking again, O'Neill offered an unusual reply. This follows a photograph of Jackie O appearing to hold a glass of wine last month, though it was noted the drink could have been non-alcoholic.
Jackie O has previously been open about her struggles with addiction. In her memoir, "The Whole Truth," she detailed a three-year battle with alcohol, prescription painkiller Panadeine Forte, and the sleeping pill Stilnox.
Meanwhile, the professional relationship between Karl Stefanovic and Keshnee Kemp has reportedly deteriorated significantly. Sources indicate that Kemp launched urgent Supreme Court action to prevent Stefanovic from forcing her out of the venture they established together. This legal move follows a period of intense conflict, with insiders suggesting a breakdown in communication and mutual blame regarding business strategies.
"Kesh was blaming Karl for blowing it all up before they were making money and Karl was blaming her for not having the ideas about how to pivot," a source told Inside Mail. The strain on their working relationship is said to have been exacerbated by the loss of Stefanovic's lucrative media jobs, which disrupted their business plans.
In separate news, the marriage of Jo and Stephen Silvagni has also faced challenges. Jo, formerly known as Jo Bailey, has reportedly lost her long-standing role as a representative for Chemist Warehouse. Stephen Silvagni has experienced a difficult season as St Kilda's list manager. The couple was recently seen attending their son Tom Silvagni's rape trial.
Further speculation surrounds the potential replacement for Kyle and Jackie O on KIIS FM in Sydney. Radio industry commentator Rob McKnight suggested that Dr. Chris Brown is a likely candidate, though he noted that radio demands a different presence than television, which could pose a challenge for TV personalities transitioning to the medium.