The Alpha Media group is currently taking swift action following a controversial on-air comment made by radio host Ari Paluch, as reported by ámbito.com. The group is announcing that it is terminating Paluch's contract with FM Rock & Pop, effectively ending his association with the radio station.
The Incident: A Suggestion of Burundanga
The controversy is stemming from a recent broadcast where Paluch allegedly suggested, while on air, that burundanga (a substance known for its use in drugging individuals) could be slipped into a female colleague's drink so that he could kiss her. According to ámbito.com, this comment sparked immediate and widespread condemnation.
"The journalist starred in an unacceptable incident when he made a comment on the air where he suggested putting burundanga in the glass of a co-worker who seemed 'pretty' to him to 'give her a little kiss'," reported ámbito.com.
Alpha Media's Response
Alpha Media's official statement, as detailed by ámbito.com, is emphasizing the immediate severing of ties with Paluch. The company is reportedly emphasizing that his remarks are incompatible with the values and standards of the radio network.
"On the date, the contractual relationship of Ari Paluch with FM Rock & Pop was resolved and he will not continue to be linked to the radio," Alpha Media stated, according to ámbito.com.
Context of the Comment
The incident reportedly unfolded at the conclusion of Paluch's program, «Arizona,» which he co-hosted with his daughter, Martina. The radio show was, according to ámbito.com, transitioning to Beto Casella's program when the discussion took a disturbing turn. The conversation reportedly started with a discussion about «black widows,» leading Paluch to inquire about the availability of burundanga. He allegedly directed his comments toward a female announcer, suggesting the substance could be used to facilitate unwanted advances.
According to ámbito.com, Paluch asked, «Is it easy to get burundanga?» to which Casella replied in the affirmative. Paluch then allegedly continued, «Because this girl, what's your announcer's name? -continued the driver- is pretty, that girl. Then we can arrange, let's go and let's go, one morning we put it in the glass with water,» he blurted out with laughter.
Reactions and Aftermath
Paluch's daughter, Martina, reportedly intervened during the broadcast, expressing her disapproval and attempting to steer the conversation away from the inappropriate topic. Beto Casella's reaction, described as a «complicit smile» by ámbito.com, has also drawn criticism. The incident quickly gained traction on social media, generating widespread outrage and condemnation.
Prior to the termination of his contract, Paluch had already been taken off the air, with radio executives reportedly requesting that he «take a few days» to address the situation, ámbito.com is reporting.
Implications and Broader Conversation
This incident is fueling a larger conversation about acceptable behavior in the workplace and the responsibilities of media personalities. Many are currently using this as an example of the importance of holding individuals accountable for their words and actions, especially when they perpetuate harmful stereotypes or normalize dangerous behaviors.
The decision by Rock & Pop to terminate Paluch's contract is being viewed by many as a necessary step in promoting a safer and more respectful environment. It remains to be seen what long-term impact this incident will have on Paluch's career and the broader media landscape in Argentina.
The radio station, owned by Alpha Media, has yet to release further details on who will be replacing Paluch or the changes that are coming to the radio programs.
The situation is currently being analyzed by experts on media and law to fully understand the scope of the comment.
This is a developing story and more information is expected to come out as investigations continue.
