Channel 7 to decide future of The Chase amid Andrew O’Keefe allegations

Months of pre-recorded episodes of The Chase may not be aired following the domestic violence allegations against the quiz show’s host, Andrew O’Keefe.

Channel 7 is yet to decide on the future of already recorded episodes of The Chase after host Andrew O’Keefe was charged with common ­assault and issued an apprehended violence order.

The Daily Telegraph ­understands network bosses are considering their options as to whether or not to bin six months worth of episodes of the quiz show that were filmed last year.

At press time, The Chase remained in Seven’s schedule at 5pm weeknights.

O’Keefe in his role as host of The Chase Australia.

Police charge sheets filed at Waverley Local Court ahead of Thursday’s initial hearing state O’Keefe, of Paddington, was arrested by an Eastern Beaches probationary constable at 3.30am on Sunday.

He was in custody at Waverley Police Station for around six hours, until he was charged with assault at 9.41am.

The documents allege that between 11pm and 11.30pm – around four hours before his arrest – O’Keefe “did assault Orly Lavee” at Randwick.

Police will allege the television host punched haematologist Dr Lavee in the face, punctured her lower lip, pulled her hair, kicked the back of her legs and spat on her.

Father of three O’Keefe is the nephew of Australian rock legend Johnny O’Keefe.

He is a former chairman and ambassador for domestic violence foundation White Ribbon Australia.

Dr Lavee outside her home on Monday. Picture: Khapgg/ Backgrid

Andrew O'Keefe pictured in 2016 as a White Ribbon Australia ambassador. Picture: John Appleyard

In 2017, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his charity and television work.

Yesterday, a spokesman for the Council for the Order of Australia said any decision on his OA would be made once court proceedings are complete.

“Speaking generally, in the case of a conviction for a crime or offence all legal proceedings need to be completed. Once all legal proceedings have run their course, the Council for the Order of Australia may make a recommendation to the Governor-General,” the spokesman said.

Dr Orly Lavee drives away from her Randwick home on Monday. She alleges she was assaulted there by partner Andrew O’Keefe. Picture: Adam Yip.

O’Keefe was arrested in Randwick on Sunday and taken to Maroubra police station where he was charged.

According to the bail conditions/provisional AVO, the former Weekend Sunrise and Deal Or No Deal host was ­released on bail, with conditions preventing him from contacting Dr Lavee, except through legal representation.

Conditions of the provisional apprehended violence order also prevent O’Keefe from approaching or contacting Dr Lavee.