How Magda Szubanski became the target of right-wing extremists

Australia’s much-loved comedian Magda Szubanski was recently targeted by a coordinated “avalanche of hate” from rightwing extremists and COVID deniers after appearing in a Victorian government ad encouraging mask use. Australia’s e-safety commissioner Julie Inman-Grant reported Magda was subjected to ‘volumetric cross-platform online abuse’ which is commonly organised in closed groups on Facebook or other platforms.

Magda’s joins The Briefing to share her story:

• Did she ever expect the campaign would come with this much backlash?
• What was it about her involvement that really triggered them?
• What is it about the pandemic that has brought the abuse and attacks out?
• Was there any point where she regretted being part of this campaign or even considered asking for the ads to be taken down?
• Why did she take the approach of calling out the attacks?

In today's headlines:

• Developing: France on high alert after terror attack
• NRL backs down on plan to ditch national anthem
• Australia Post CEO accuses Prime Minister of “humiliating” her
• Border news: QLD, WA decide futures as early as today

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