A prominent athlete has taken the stand in the trial of Alan Jones, detailing allegations of unwanted affection and indecent assault by the veteran broadcaster.
Why it matters: The trial could have consequences for media personalities and their conduct, especially concerning power dynamics in relationships.
Alan Jones, 85, faces 22 charges of indecent assault and sexual touching, having pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The athlete, known in court as Complainant M, is the third alleged victim to testify against Jones, presenting his case in person.
M's allegations include two instances of non-consensual kissing, one occurring at a public event in 2015 and another at Jones’s apartment.
Driving the news: Complainant M recounted his experiences during testimony on September 14, 2026, in a closed court session, where media representatives followed the proceedings via video link.
M described an incident where Jones kissed him on the corner of his mouth, leaving him "shocked and embarrassed."
He stated that after the kiss, Jones texted him saying, "I would like to be kissing you all night."
The athlete expressed feeling apprehensive about offending Jones due to his influential position in the media.
State of play: The court heard that Jones regularly sent flowers and affectionate text messages to M over several years.
Jones’s driver would deliver weekly bouquets to M’s home after he complimented the flowers on Jones’s dining table.
M testified that the text messages often included phrases like “I love you darling” and “big big kisses,” which made him uncomfortable.
One message read: "I love the photo. I love you. I want to kiss you for hours," which M found overwhelming.
The big picture: The allegations against Jones raise questions about consent, power dynamics, and the responsibilities of public figures.
The trial is part of a broader societal conversation about inappropriate behavior in positions of power, particularly in the media.
Jones has denied all allegations, asserting that the incidents never occurred, and maintains his innocence throughout the proceedings.
The case has attracted considerable media attention, highlighting the challenges faced by survivors of sexual assault in coming forward.
What they're saying: M’s testimony has opened up discussions about the nature of their relationship and the impact of Jones’s actions on him.
M told the court, "I was frozen at that time. I didn’t understand why it was happening," emphasizing the confusion and shock he felt.
He described feeling pressured to maintain contact with Jones due to the broadcaster's influence, stating, "He hurts brands, he hurt politicians."
Prosecutor Georgina Wright SC emphasized the emotional toll of Jones's behavior, asking M how the texts made him feel.
By the numbers: The trial includes multiple complainants, with Jones facing a total of 22 charges related to various incidents.
In total, Jones is charged with 20 counts of indecent assault and 2 counts of sexual touching involving six male complainants.
The allegations span a period from 2003 to 2020, with incidents occurring at public events and private gatherings.
M is the first complainant to give evidence in person, marking a notable moment in the trial.
Between the lines: The court proceedings reveal the complex interplay between admiration and inappropriate advances.
M described how Jones often greeted him with compliments, calling him "beautiful man" and "champion," which initially felt flattering but later became uncomfortable.
He recalled that during their interactions, Jones would often express affection in ways that felt excessive, stating, "It was not something even my parents say to me."
M also mentioned that after complimenting Jones on his tableware, he received a set of the same tableware as a gift.
What's next: The trial continues as more evidence is presented and additional witnesses are expected to testify.
The court will hear from more complainants, which may shed light on the broader pattern of behavior exhibited by Jones.
As the trial progresses, the implications for Jones’s career and reputation in the media industry remain uncertain.
Complainant M's testimony is likely to influence public perception and discussions around accountability for public figures.