'Australian Idol' judge axed over 'rape row'

Kyle Sandilands has been axed from the Australian Idol judging panel following his involvement in a controversial radio stunt.

The broadcaster came under fire last week after quizzing a 14-year-old girl about her sexual history live on air. Towards the end of the segment, the teen revealed that she had been raped two years ago.

Sandilands's 2DayFM radio show with colleague Jackie O was suspended in the aftermath of the incident, which drew condemnation from various media figures and Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.

The DJ has been an Idol judge since the show's third season in 2005. The popular programme returns to Channel Ten for its seventh run on Sunday.

In a statement, Ten programming chief David Mott confirmed: "Obviously culminating with events of last week, we have made the decision that Kyle will no longer be a judge on Australian Idol.

"Australian Idol is very much a family programme and its appeal is very much right across the board and we'd like to think that all families can enjoy the programme in front of the TV."

Speaking in response to the decision, Sandilands commented: "I'm disappointed at Channel Ten's decision to remove me from Australian Idol. I have truly loved being a part of the show and wish everyone involved all of the success for this coming season."