Gareth Cliff suing M-Net for R25m?

Recently axed Idols SA judge Gareth Cliff is reportedly suing M-Net for R25 million. Cliff is suing the broadcaster to court for wrongful dismissal and defamation. Gareth Cliff came under fire for his comments about KwaZulu-Natal estate agent Penny Sparrow who compared Durban beach goers to monkeys. Cliff said her comments constituted free speech.

Cliff’s comments enraged Twitter, some claiming he had always been racist, while DJ Sbu came to his defence, saying Cliff was “the last person anyone should call racist”.

Cliff later apologised for the tweet.

M-Net released the following statement explaining why Gareth will not be on the Idols SA judging panel:

“Over the last few months following Unathi’s indiscretions on social media, we have been in discussions with our judges, presenters and talent to sensitise them to the risks of using social media. All the Idols SA judges were reminded that M-Net holds all brand ambassadors and employees to the highest standards in our ongoing efforts to promote and build a modern and inclusive South Africa.

Unfortunately we then had to deal with Somizi’s inappropriate comments and following the latest issue, we have now implemented a zero tolerance policy for all social media posts that go against the spirit of nation-building. This policy will apply to everyone associated with our brands going forward.

We do not believe that Gareth is a racist but his response showed a lack of empathy for our history and it is important to differentiate between freedom of speech and hate speech. Penny Sparrow’s comments were hateful. Hate speech is not applicable with regard to freedom of speech.”

Cliff’s lawyer has however reportedly said M-Net did not follow proper procedure during his dismissal. As a result, he wants to be reinstated as a judge and be part of the new season of the singing competition, eNCA reports.

Countrywide auditions for the 12^th Season of Idols SA are set to begin at the end of this month.