Alan Jones breaks silence with big announcement
Radio veteran Alan Jones has made it clear that he intends to return to the broadcasting scene, despite facing health setbacks and controversies.
In a recent video released to the public, the 82-year-old affirmed his commitment to getting back behind the microphone. Jones, a prominent figure in Australian media, addressed the various challenges he has encountered during his hiatus. Last year, he found himself embroiled in a series of allegations reported by Nine Newspapers, which accused him of misconduct involving young men. Firmly denying these allegations, Jones reiterated his stance, labelling the claims as "demonstrably false" and refuting them entirely.
“I’m not going to dwell here on the allegations made about me other than I refute them entirely and the inferences associated with them,” Jones said in the video announcement. “But the get-Jones campaign is nothing new in my life.”
Despite the legal storm looming over him, Jones departed for London before Christmas, attributing his trip to a promise made to his godson to experience the vibrant theatre scene of London's West End.
Dispelling speculations about the purpose of his journey, Jones clarified that his visit to London was not aimed at seeking assistance from his protégé Jake Thrupp, who was reportedly in Bali during most of Jones' stay. Instead, Jones expressed his eagerness to resume his broadcasting endeavours, particularly through the online platform ADH TV, with plans initially set for February of this year.
However, unforeseen health issues have posed significant hurdles to Jones' plans for a swift return. Admitting to grappling with persistent health concerns, including "traumatic pain", Jones disclosed that he had been delaying necessary medical intervention. “I have every intention of returning to broadcasting eventually, it is what I do,” he said. “My work has been my life. I could have retired but as I’ve often said ‘if you stop, you drop’.”
Recent images capturing him using a walking stick underscored the severity of his condition, prompting him to confront the reality of his physical limitations.
Jones candidly shared his health prognosis, revealing that his condition had been assessed as "poor" by medical professionals. Advised to prioritise his well-being, he acknowledged the necessity of addressing his health before resuming his professional duties.
“I have suffered no mental ageing," he said, "but I am living with two choices - constant pain where painkillers become totally ineffective or powerful medication with side effects including loss of agility and movement and erratic sleep.”
Images: Getty