"Frankly, it's pathetic": The Project hosts lash out at wombat snatcher

The hosts of The Project have lashed out at US hunting influencer Sam Jones after she pulled out of a scheduled interview at the last minute.

Jones, who sparked outrage by snatching a baby wombat from its mother and sharing a video of the incident with her 92,000 Instagram followers, has faced further condemnation for her recent actions.

Jones was set to appear on The Project on Sunday night to answer tough questions from the panel but instead opted to provide a pre-recorded video statement. The decision did not sit well with host Hamish Macdonald, who described it as "pathetic".

In her video message, Jones apologised for her actions but also took aim at the Australian government for allowing farmers to kill wombats. "It was an incredible mistake, and there hasn't been a moment I haven't regretted it," she stated. However, she then shifted the blame, saying, "The same government that is calling for my head is the one that spends millions of your tax dollars to mass slaughter native Australian animals."

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Jones later posted a statement on Instagram about the controversy. Addressing the audience, Hamish Macdonald said, "I think we probably just need to be totally straight and honest with you at home, we were all here earlier this afternoon to do an interview with her and ask her questions, but she pulled out of that and instead provided that video statement. I think, frankly, it's pathetic, given what's happened."

He continued, "Obviously, no one condones violence or threats of violence or any of the things that have been thrown her way, but honestly, to say you're 'genuinely sorry' but not be willing to explain yourself, and then point the finger at the Australian government – I think it's pretty lousy."

Co-host Sarah Harris then chimed in, saying, "I think the infuriating stuff came in her apology afterwards, where she said, 'Oh you know, the Australian government allows the slaughter of wombats.' It's just not true. We know that wombats are protected here."

Harris pointed out that offenders harming a wombat could face fines of up to $40,000 and two years in prison. Macdonald then doubled down on his criticism, calling Jones' statement "riddled with misinformation". He added, "This is typical of influencers. They only want to make their own statements to the world, with no responsibility or accountability. The reality is, there's been a strong public response because Australians are proud of their wildlife and the incredible nature that we have."

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Following Jones' decision to cancel her interview, viewers of The Project quickly took to social media to voice their disapproval. One Facebook user wrote, "Sounds like, 'Sorry, not sorry'." Another commented, "She is only sorry she got caught," while a third remarked, "Typical American turning this whole wombat episode into an Australian political error. She needs to get her FACTS straight."

Jones has yet to respond to the fresh wave of criticism, but the backlash against her actions and response shows no signs of dying down.

Images: Instagram / The Project