Sky News Australia Cancels 'Freya Fires Up' After Far-Right Guest Sparks Controversy
September 29, 2025
Sky News Australia canceled its new program 'Freya Fires Up' after less than two months on air, following a controversial live interview involving far-right guest Ryan Williams, who wore a bacon shirt to insult Islam.
The incident was premeditated, with Williams posting a video showing his interaction with a studio assistant unaware of his plans, and Sky News having prior knowledge of his intentions.
Sky News conducted a thorough internal review, implemented recommendations, and took appropriate actions in response to the controversy.
An employee involved in guest liaison was not aware of Williams' provocative intentions, and the network has not disclosed whether anyone lost their job over the incident.
Far-right figure Tommy Robinson praised Williams as a 'hero' after the interview was posted online.
During the broadcast, host Freya Leach quickly cut off the guest, issued an apology, and the content was not published on digital platforms.
The show was scheduled to be pre-recorded after an internal review but was ultimately removed from Sky's programming and promotional materials.
The guest's act of wearing bacon rashers live on air led to public and internal backlash.
The decision to cancel the show was made after it aired without senior editors or managers approving the guest list, which contributed to the controversy.
The incident added to previous criticism Sky News faced for inviting far-right figures like Blair Cottrell for interviews.
Despite the show's cancellation, host Freya Leach remains a co-host on Sky's 'The Late Debate'.
Williams declared his intent to fight Islam and claimed he wore bacon for protection against threats of beheading, making highly offensive statements during the segment.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Sep 29, 2025
Freya Leach’s Sky News Australia program axed after airing anti-Islam guest wearing shirt covered in bacon
The Sydney Morning Herald • Sep 29, 2025
Sky News axes Freya Fires Up after Islamophobic guest