PHOTO: The Block billionaire Adrian Portelli. FILE
Adrian Portelli, a renowned billionaire and personality from The Block, has made a public vow to support former Channel Nine star Alex Cullen in finding a new job. This comes after Cullen, a presenter on the Today show, was dismissed from the network due to his acceptance of a $50,000 gift from Portelli.
Join Forces with New Zealand’s Premier Independent Real Estate News Aggregation Platform
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Portelli, 35, shared a photo revealing that he had donated the $50,000 to charity on Cullen’s behalf. He split the amount evenly between the Salvation Army and the RSPCA, showcasing both his generosity and Cullen’s admirable intentions.
“Alex Cullen… on behalf of you, mate, $25,000 to the Salvation Army and $25,000 to the RSPCA,” Portelli wrote alongside a screenshot of the bank receipts. Portelli further elaborated on the situation, noting that even before Cullen had heard from Nine, he had expressed a desire to donate the money.
“That speaks volumes about his character. Alex, you’re an absolute gentleman. If Nine let you go, I’d be more than happy to collaborate with you on something. True class, mate!” Portelli added, praising Cullen’s integrity and expressing his willingness to explore future collaboration opportunities.
Portelli also used his Instagram Stories to hint at potential job opportunities for Cullen, stating that he had “positions available” in Melbourne for content creators and videographers. This gesture not only highlights Portelli’s support for Cullen but also opens doors for the former presenter in a new direction.
The Block billionaire Adrian Portelli (pictured) has vowed to find a job for recently axed Channel Nine star Alex Cullen, after the Today show presenter was let go from the network for accepting a $50,000 gift
Cullen’s departure from Channel Nine was officially announced by Today host Karl Stefanovic during a live broadcast. Stefanovic acknowledged the widespread reporting on the circumstances surrounding Cullen’s exit and confirmed that Cullen and the network had agreed to part ways following a review into the incident.
“Alex has, of course, been part of the Today family for five years now, he’s always ready with a smile and a laugh, and without hesitation, speaking for all of us here, we can say that we are going to miss him terribly, for sure,” Stefanovic said, expressing the team’s sentiments. “A terrific fella, what you see is what you get, and he has been a great mate to all of us over these years. We wish Alex, his wife Bonnie, and his beautiful kids all the very best for the future.”
A spokesperson for Nine confirmed to Daily Mail Australia that Cullen’s departure was the result of a recent review into the incident involving the $50,000 payment. Despite the controversy, Portelli’s actions have showcased Cullen’s strong character and the bond between the two individuals.
The incident began when Portelli offered a $50,000 reward to the first person to use his new nickname “McLaren Man” on air, replacing his long-used moniker “Mr Lambo.” Cullen, seizing the opportunity, used the nickname live on the Today show, which led to Portelli transferring the substantial sum to him. However, this action was in breach of journalism ethics, which prohibit accepting cash, gifts, or benefits that could undermine journalistic independence.
The wealthy entrepreneur, 35, recently shared a photo to Instagram in which he revealed he had donated Alex Cullen’s (pictured) $50k to a charity on his behalf – and extended a surprising offer to the presenter
‘Alex Cullen… on behalf of you, mate, $25,000 to the Salvation Army and $25,000 to the RSPCA,’ Portelli wrote next to a screenshot of the bank receipts
Cullen was subsequently suspended by Nine and did not appear on the show while the network investigated the payment. During his absence, Clint Stanaway stepped in to report live from Melbourne for Nine’s coverage of the Australian Open tennis.
Despite the challenges, Cullen resurfaced on social media to share a birthday tribute to his daughters, showing resilience in the face of adversity. Network insiders suggested that the incident could have been handled differently, potentially benefiting both the network and Portelli if Cullen had informed the promoter that he could not accept the payment.
Portelli first gained attention with the nickname “Mr Lambo” when he arrived at a 2022 auction of The Block in a yellow Lamborghini. Cullen, who joined Today during its relaunch five years ago, initially served as the sports presenter before taking over the news segment when Tracy Vo returned to 9News Perth.
Portelli also shared to his Stories that he had ‘positions available’ in Melbourne for content creators and videographers, hinting at what roles might be available to Cullen
As Cullen embarks on this new chapter, Portelli’s support and the potential job opportunities in Melbourne offer a glimmer of hope. The future may hold new and exciting prospects for Cullen, supported by a friend who values his integrity and character.
SOURCE: THE DAILY MAIL