In a surprising turn of events, Nine Network reporter Alex Cullen has been suspended following revelations that he accepted a $50,000 payment from billionaire entrepreneur Adrian Portelli. The incident unfolded after Cullen referred to Portelli as the “McLaren guy” during a live broadcast, a moniker Portelli had publicly offered to reward.
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Portelli, known for his extravagant lifestyle and high-profile acquisitions, including purchasing all five properties on the 2024 season of “The Block” for $15.03 million, had expressed dissatisfaction with being labeled the “Lambo guy.” In response, he pledged $50,000 to the first television presenter who would call him the “McLaren guy” on air.
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During a live segment from the Australian Open, Cullen, along with host Karl Stefanovic, used the preferred nickname. Subsequently, Portelli shared a screenshot of a $50,000 bank transfer to Cullen, stating, “We have a winner! Well played sir.”
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The Nine Network has taken swift action, arranging for the funds to be returned and suspending Cullen pending an internal investigation. A spokesperson for the network stated, “Nine is taking this matter extremely seriously… While we review the circumstances in which this occurred, Alex has agreed to stand down.”
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This incident adds to the series of controversies surrounding Portelli. In December 2024, he accepted a plea deal in a lottery case, agreeing to forfeit $200,000 to settle charges related to conducting unlawful lotteries through his company, LMCT+.
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Portelli’s penchant for luxury has been well-documented. He recently showcased his $5 million Lamborghini yacht, shipped from Italy to Australia, and has been known for his collection of high-end vehicles and properties.
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As the Nine Network continues its investigation, the incident serves as a reminder of the ethical boundaries journalists must navigate in their interactions with public figures
