In an unusual twist that sounds straight out of a reality TV script, a Nine Network reporter has been suspended after allegedly pocketing $50,000 from billionaire Adrian Portelli. The reason? Referring to Portelli as the “McLaren guy” on live television—a nickname the billionaire had been pushing for.
Adrian Portelli, who became famous as the “Lambo guy” in 2022 after pulling up to a The Block auction in a flashy yellow Lamborghini, has had enough of the old nickname. To rebrand himself, he recently promised $50,000 to the first TV presenter who called him the “McLaren guy” on air.
True to his word, Portelli reportedly posted a screenshot of a $50,000 transfer to Cullen, along with the caption, “We have a winner! Well played, sir.”
But the celebration was short-lived. Nine quickly took action, suspending Cullen and launching an investigation. “Nine is taking this matter extremely seriously,” a spokesperson said. “We are working to return the funds and have suspended Alex while we review what happened.”
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Portelli, known for his extravagant giveaways and high-profile purchases on The Block, explained his frustration on Instagram. “They’ve been calling me the ‘Lambo guy’ for years. I’ve asked them to stop, but it keeps happening. It’s time for a change.”
This isn’t Portelli’s first brush with controversy. His company, LMCT+, is currently facing charges over conducting alleged unlawful lotteries. The charges relate to promotions offering luxury prizes, including homes featured on The Block. Portelli has pleaded not guilty, with the court case ongoing.
The incident has raised eyebrows across the media landscape, sparking debates about journalistic ethics, branding, and the blurred lines between publicity stunts and serious reporting.
As the saga unfolds, all eyes are on Nine and Portelli to see how they navigate this unusual media storm.
