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Outrage as ABC drops newsreader over on-air gaffe

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten is among many calling for newsreader Natasha Exelby to be given a second chance by the ABC after her viral gaffe.

ABC newsreader Natasha Exelby
ABC newsreader Natasha Exelby Source: ABC Australia

The ABC has come under fire after apparently dumping casual newsreader Natasha Exelby after her shocked expression video went viral.

Exelby's stunned reaction at realising the camera had cut back to her attracted widespread attention, with many fellow broadcasters expressing empathy and outrage after it was reported the ABC had dropped her.

The ABC says Exelby is a casual who's used on an on-need basis, but Opposition Leader Bill Shorten was among many who demanded she be given another chance.

Media personalities from around Australia have shown support by sharing their own bloopers under the hashtag #PutYourBloopersOut.

"Thank you all for your generous support," Ms Exelby wrote. "Not my finest hour. Myself and my mesmerising pen honourably salute you!"


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