Gareth Cliff’s lawyer Eric Mabuza told eNCA that his client has issued a letter to M-Net informing the broadcaster that he intends to sue it for R25 million.
“A letter has been issued to M-Net, where Mr Cliff is demanding… a claim for R25 million,” said Mabuza.
“[It] encompasses a claim for defamation for R5 million and the rest (R20 million) is for breach of the contract.”
Cliff was axed as a judge on reality show Idols after a Twitter frenzy over comments related to the Penny Sparrow race debacle.
M-Net announced on 8 January that Cliff would not be part of the judging panel for Idols SA Season 12, which is due to commence with countrywide auditions at the end of January.
According to Cliff’s lawyer, M-Net didn’t follow proper procedure during his dismissal.
It has been reported that Advocate Dali Mpofu (SC) will represent Gareth Cliff in his case against M-Net.
M-Net declined to comment on the matter.
VIDEO: Here's #GarethCliff 's lawyer Eric Mabuza breaking down the numbers on behalf of his client @eNCA pic.twitter.com/VMHH51Spol
— Nontobeko Sibisi (@Nontobek0Sibisi) January 18, 2016