Doctored image allegedly at core of Channel 7 reporter Robert Ovadia’s sacking

The picture is understood to have featured a cartoon depiction of the producer, but not in a sexual manner, and led to Friday’s revelation that Ovadia had been sacked.

7 News journalist Robert Ovadia.

A doctored image of a young female producer is alleged to be at the centre of the decision to sack veteran Channel 7 reporter Robert Ovadia.

The picture is understood to have featured a cartoon depiction of the producer, but not in a sexual manner, and led to Friday’s revelation that Ovadia had been sacked from the network after 23 years service.

Sources have said Ovadia’s sacking came after the ABC’s flagship investigative program, 4 Corners, was told about the image and began asking questions.

It is understood the junior producer – who is aged in her 20s and no longer works at Channel 7 – never made an official complaint about the image and that it was sent to 4 Corners which is investigating newsroom cultures for a future program.

When contacted on Friday, Ovadia would not comment other than to confirm he had parted ways with the network.

A doctored image is alleged to be at the centre of Ovadia’s sacking. Picture: Supplied

“Yes I’ve been sacked and there will be more to say about that in the appropriate forum at the appropriate time,” Ovadia said when contacted.

He has hired leading media lawyer John Laxon and is understood to be planning legal action against Channel 7.

Multiple media identities as well as current and former colleagues have written messages in support of Ovadia.

“Rob, in the seven-plus years we worked together, you were nothing but a consummate professional,” one message said. “ … In fact, you were the biggest gentleman in the newsroom.”

A Channel 7 spokesperson did not respond to The Saturday Telegraph’s questions about Ovadia being sacked following questions from the ABC.

It was revealed on June 7 that Ovadia had been stood down from the network.

At the time, the network said: “Seven is conducting an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour by Robert Ovadia.”

There is no suggestion Ovadia is guilty of inappropriate behaviour and he has said he will vigorously defend himself.

The crime reporter’s sacking comes amid an exit of numerous senior males at Seven in the past month and following the appointment of Anthony De Ceglie as Seven West Media’s new director of news and current affairs and editor-in-chief.

Sydney news director Neil Warren and chief of staff Andrew Frampton were among the casualties. Neither of the men is accused of wrongdoing and their departures were amicable.

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