Nova radio host Kate Ritchie has called out tabloids for their “constant harassment” as she confirms she will be taking a step back from her radio show for mental health reasons.
In an emotional statement shared to Instagram on Monday, the former Home and Away star — who hosts Nova’s Fitzy and Wippa with Kate Ritchie — explained she is dealing with mental health concerns that have “proven to be a bigger challenge” than expected.
“So, I have decided to take a break from the show and the team who I love, to focus on my health,” Ritchie said.
Kate’s emotional statement to fans. Source: Instagram
This all comes after a string of images surfaced on The Daily Mail last week, showing Ritchie visibly distressed and in tears while talking on the phone in a park. The vulnerable moment soon turned into a media frenzy, with outlets and punters alike speculating on the radio host’s mental state and questioning her days of absence from the show.
Addressing the images in her statement, Ritchie said the pap pics demonstrated how she “wasn’t okay” on that day, which was only exacerbated by relentless scrutiny from the media.
“My struggle is not helped by the relentless stalking of me by the paparazzi, in fact they are making it much worse,” she remarked.
“Due to their constant harassment, they significantly add pressure and make my recovery that much more difficult.”
She also took aim at those “profiting from invading [her] privacy”, adding: “A simple question — would you treat, say your sister, mother, or daughter the same, if they had similar challenges?”
In her parting note, the radio host urged the paparazzi to reflect on the harm they could be inflicting as she called for space and privacy during this time.
She did not clarify how long the break from her Nova Sydney breakfast radio show will be, however she took a moment to thank the station and listeners for their support in her statement.
“I appreciate it more than you can imagine,” she said.
Ritchie’s post has been met with support from fans and colleagues, with Lisa Wipfli, wife of her radio co-host Michael “Wippa” Wipfli, writing: “This is so brave of you to share. You will be helping so many other people suffering with mental health. You’re brave and strong and will get through this hard time. We’re here for you every step of the day.”
Actress Rebecca Gibney also voiced her support, writing, “Sending you all the love in the world. Please don’t let them break your spirit. Remember how loved you are. You are a national treasure and there is so much support for you.”
Another fan said they were “appalled” at the invasive images shared by the Daily Mail.
“How dare they! My heart breaks for you right now. Take the time to heal and I look forward to hearing you back on the radio when you’re ready,” they wrote.
Lead image: Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images
