Legal
Nine’s $700,000 hush settlement revealed
The Australian’s Stephen Rice reports that Nine has been exposed as paying $700,000 to Ben Roberts-Smith’s former lover in a confidential settlement linked to allegations against its investigative reporter Nick McKenzie.
The publisher had attempted to keep the agreement secret for 50 years, highlighting the sensitivity of the claims and the stakes involved.
Media
Hadley calls out Hanson over Muslim comments
Former shock jock Ray Hadley has broken ranks with Pauline Hanson, criticising the One Nation leader over controversial comments about Muslims during a Sky News appearance.
As news.com.au’s Bianca Soldani reports, Hanson said Islam “concerns her” and suggested Muslims “hate Westerners”, drawing immediate backlash.
Retail Media
Coles considered regulator move over Woolworths promotions
The Australian Financial Review’s Max Mason and Carrie LaFrenz report that Coles grew concerned enough about Woolworths’ aggressive discounting tactics that it weighed reporting its rival to the competition regulator, according to internal emails.
Staff warned the strategy could damage Coles’ value perception with shoppers.
Coles ultimately chose to respond competitively rather than escalate the issue.
Companies
Paramount moves closer to Warner Bros Discovery talks
According to Semafor’s Rohan Goswami, Paramount is gaining ground in the battle for Warner Bros. Discovery, with the board now leaning toward opening negotiations with the Ellison-backed bidder.
The move would give Paramount the chance to strengthen its offer and challenge Netflix’s rival proposal.
Vale
Robert Duvall dies aged 95
The Hollywood Reporter’s Mike Barnes writes that Robert Duvall, one of Hollywood’s most formidable screen presences, has died at 95.
Best known for defining roles in The Godfather, Apocalypse Now and Tender Mercies, Duvall built a career on quiet intensity and performances that rarely missed.