Former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce was caught on a viral ABC interview snapping at a studio dog and later admonishing interviewer Sarah Ferguson. The interruption occurred while Ferguson questioned Joyce about Pauline Hanson's meeting with Tommy Robinson, and the exchange quickly circulated online. Critics highlighted the moment and recalled a past report about Joyce's remarks involving Johnny Depp's dogs, prompting renewed backlash. Joyce described the reaction as reflecting a regional-versus-inner-city divide.
Barnaby Joyce Snaps at Studio Dog During Live ABC Interview, Warns Host 'Don't Be Rude' — Clip Goes Viral
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Former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce became the focus of a widely shared clip after he snapped at a studio dog during a live one-on-one interview on ABC and later admonished the show's host.
The interview, conducted by ABC journalist Sarah Ferguson, was addressing a recent meeting between One Nation leader Pauline Hanson and British far-right figure Tommy Robinson. Midway through the exchange Joyce abruptly shouted 'Sit down!' at a dog that had wandered into the studio. He turned to Ferguson and said, 'Sorry, it's the dog,' but the animal interrupted again and the moment derailed the line of questioning.
As Ferguson attempted to steer the conversation back to Hanson and Robinson, Joyce replied: 'I do apologize for this dog, it's just started to bail up.' When Ferguson said, 'Don't worry about the dog, just answer the question,' Joyce snapped back: 'Don't be rude. Otherwise, this interview will come to a grinding halt, Sarah.' The sharp exchange was captured on camera and circulated widely across social platforms.
Joyce: 'Don't be rude. Otherwise, this interview will come to a grinding halt, Sarah.'
The clip also revived an earlier report highlighting a past incident in which Joyce allegedly made a threat concerning actor Johnny Depp's dogs, a detail several outlets referenced as the footage spread.
Reaction was swift: viewers, commentators and some lawmakers criticised Joyce's treatment of both the dog and the interviewer. Victoria Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell wrote on social media: 'If you think this is a normal way to speak to your dog, sit down!'
Joyce later characterised the public response as a cultural divide, telling the Sydney Morning Herald: 'People in the regions laugh about it. People in the inner city think it's a war crime.' The episode has become another moment in the ongoing debate about public behaviour and standards for senior political figures.
What Happened Next
The clip's circulation prompted commentary from media and politicians and renewed discussion about how public figures handle live interviews and interactions with animals in studio settings. ABC has not issued a formal statement beyond airing the interview; Joyce's comments remain the subject of public scrutiny.
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