TV presenter Grant Denyer has recently celebrated his win against tabloid magazine New Idea, after the publication was forced to publicly apologise for publishing a false story about him having an affair.
In mid-October, New Idea published a story implying that Denyer was having an affair with his Dancing with the Stars partner Lily Cornish.
Taking to Instagram on Monday, the Gold Logie winner shared two photos of the apology, which appeared on both their website and latest printed edition.
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“As many of you have already read and raised with us, New Idea have printed today on the editor’s page an apology to Chezzi, Lily and myself for their most recent attack – The false, sensationalised, out of context and WRONG front cover,” he began in the caption.
“And they have admitted (which very rarely ever happens) that the article was false.
“They also have admitted that they regret publishing the article.”
He also revealed that he received a “confidential settlement” from the magazine almost two months after the “sensationalised” claims emerged.
Denyer said that he had every intention of suing the publication, employing lawyers from Corrs Chambers Westgarth to argue his case, but a “suitable” settlement was reached outside of court.
He noted that the settlement included, “most importantly, a public apology and an admission that the story and headline were false”.
Though he said he, his wife Chezzi, and Cornish couldn’t remove the edition from circulation, “we hope this sets a serious precedent for the future”.
“Thanks to each and every one of you who have sent us letters, emails and messages of support throughout this, and to all of those who passed on their distain (sic) to New Idea and boycotted the magazine, we thank you from the bottom of our heart,” he continued.
“Without your support the 3 of us may not have been brave enough to take on this media giant.”
New Idea released the apology earlier on Monday and conveyed its regret in publishing the story.
“Are Media and New Idea acknowledge that Grant Denyer and Lily Cornish are not having an extramarital affair. They have never had an affair,” it said.
“Are Media and New Idea regret publishing the article.
“Are Media and New Idea wish to sincerely apologise to Grant Denyer, Chezzi Denyer and Lily Cornish for the hurt and embarrassment caused by this article.”
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When the story first emerged, the Denyers refuted its claims that Grant was “caught out” with Cornish.
“Lilz is like our adopted daughter,” Chezzi said at the time, adding that Cornish was a close friend of both her and Denyer.
“We grew extremely close during her month long stay with us here in Bathurst. We absolutely adore her!”
Image: Getty Images
