Singer Kate Ceberano has broken her silence after her former manager, Ralph Carr, was jailed for sexual assault, describing a "malevolent underworld" within the music industry.
Carr, whose full name is Ralph Carnovale-Carr, was found guilty by a jury of raping a woman multiple times at his Melbourne West warehouse home in March 2023. He was sentenced to a maximum of six years in prison, with a minimum of four years, at the Melbourne County Court.
Ceberano, who stopped working with Carr in 2018, told the Herald Sun that Carr's actions are not isolated incidents. "I think there's a very malevolent underworld that's attached to some people in music management," the 59-year-old singer stated. "When you have a person who's been a custodian for hardworking artists, and you suddenly find out his private life is not honourable, it's disgusting. His actions are disgusting. They're despicable."
She added that Carr's "social standing and connections" led many to believe he was a "good person," only to discover "this underworld of terrible things."
Carr, a prominent figure in showbiz and sports management, was known for his flashy appearance. He was convicted of two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. During sentencing, Judge Frank Gucciardo described Carr's offending as "very serious" and "appalling," noting that Carr took advantage of the victim's vulnerability and intoxication, and continued despite her explicit refusals.
Carr's defense attorney, Dermot Dann KC, argued for a stay of sentence, calling the guilty verdicts a "miscarriage of justice." However, Judge Gucciardo refused the application. Carr maintained his innocence, and his legal team indicated an intention to appeal the convictions.
Ceberano confirmed she has spoken with other former clients of Carr, including singer Vanessa Amorosi and his ex-wife, Tina Arena, about his imprisonment. "They've been discreet about it. We don't want to be associated with him," Ceberano said.
The court heard that Carr had self-harmed by banging his head against a wall shortly after his conviction. Multiple character references were submitted on his behalf.
For confidential support regarding sexual assault, domestic or family violence, individuals can contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit their website. In emergencies, call 000.