Alex Cullen’s unexpected departure from the *Today* show has shocked both fans and industry experts alike.
At the age of 44, Cullen’s exit from Channel Nine comes amid a media firestorm surrounding his acceptance of a $50,000 payment from *The Block* billionaire Adrian Portelli,
which ultimately led to his suspension and eventual departure.
While the incident has left fans bewildered and upset, legendary public relations figure Max Markson believes Cullen’s departure might just turn out to be a blessing in disguise.
Cullen’s connection to Portelli began after the billionaire, known for his self-appointed nickname ‘Lambo Guy,’ grew tired of the moniker
and offered a cash reward to the first person who referred to him by his new nickname, ‘McLaren Man.’
Cullen, who was reporting live from the Australian Open tennis in Melbourne, was the first media personality to comply, mentioning Portelli’s new title on the *Today* show.
Soon after, Portelli posted a social media update showing a $50,000 bank transfer to Cullen. In response, Nine quickly suspended Cullen from the program and launched an internal investigation into the matter. While Cullen later clarified that he intended to donate the money to charity, the damage had already been done. The situation highlighted potential breaches of journalistic ethics, which prohibit the acceptance of money or gifts that could compromise editorial independence.
Despite the public backlash, Max Markson, a veteran of the PR industry who has brokered some of the biggest media deals in Australia, is confident that Cullen will bounce back. “He’s already had a terrific career and will keep going on it,” Markson told *Daily Mail Australia*. “He’s a great talent,” he added, suggesting that Cullen’s departure may not be the end of his career but rather the beginning of a new chapter.
Markson was not surprised by Cullen’s departure, given the circumstances surrounding the payment. On air, *Today* host Karl Stefanovic confirmed Cullen’s exit, explaining that the decision was reached after discussions between Cullen and Nine. “As most of you are well aware, our colleague Alex Cullen has not been on air with us this past week,” Stefanovic said, addressing viewers. “Alex and Nine agreed that he would finish with the network.” While Stefanovic expressed his admiration for Cullen as a colleague, calling him a “terrific fella” who had always brought “a smile and a laugh,” the broadcaster made it clear that the situation had reached an impasse.
The saga took another twist when Portelli defended Cullen, claiming that the presenter had always intended to donate the money. Portelli shared that he had already processed $25,000 donations to both the Salvation Army and the RSPCA on Cullen’s behalf. “That speaks volumes about his character,” Portelli wrote on Instagram. “Alex, you’re an absolute gentleman. If Ch9 let you go (though I really hope they don’t!), I’d be more than happy to collaborate with you on something.” Despite these claims, the fallout continued, and Cullen’s time at Nine came to a definitive close.
Industry insiders and fans were divided in their response to Cullen’s departure. Many expressed dismay, with some taking to social media to voice their support for the presenter. One fan commented, “Wow, that was a crazy move by Nine. Alex was a breath of fresh air.” Another added, “Channel Nine has lost the plot. I doubt for one second that Alex was ever going to keep that money – he is not an idiot! Hope he gets snapped up very quickly.” Several fans expressed disappointment over Cullen’s exit, emphasizing that he was one of the few natural presenters on the show who wasn’t “talking over someone or giggling like little school kids.”
The question now is where Cullen will go next. According to Markson, opportunities abound for the talented TV presenter. “He’s talented. He will get another job – it won’t be a problem,” Markson stated confidently. Some industry sources have speculated that Portelli may even offer Cullen a position, further fueling the possibility of new professional ventures for the former *Today* presenter.
While it remains to be seen what the future holds for Cullen, the public outcry surrounding his departure from *Today* has sparked discussions about journalistic ethics, the role of money in media, and the nature of celebrity endorsements. One thing is certain: Alex Cullen’s career is far from over, and his next steps will likely make headlines in the near future.
In the meantime, fans are left to wonder what the future holds for the beloved presenter, who was known for his warmth, professionalism, and easy rapport with audiences. Whether Cullen finds a new home in television or pursues other opportunities, his departure from *Today* marks the end of an era—and perhaps the start of an even brighter one.
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