In a dramatic confrontation outside Melbourne’s County Court on December 17, 2025, former TV personality Jo Silvagni lost her composure moments after her son Tom was jailed for more than six years on rape charges. The 23-year-old’s mother—once known as glamorous co-host Jo Bailey on Sale of the Century—pushed a female Sky News Australia reporter aside and snapped “Do your job!” while brushing off questions about the sentence and potential appeal. Clips of the heated exchange quickly went viral, fueling social media outrage amid separate reports that Jo glared intently at the victim during courtroom proceedings. As the high-profile AFL family retreats amid backlash, the incident has thrown fresh scrutiny on Jo’s long-running advertising career and the Silvagnis’ unwavering support for Tom.

The outburst capped a tense day in court, where Judge Gregory Lyon branded Tom’s actions “egregious and callous.” With Christmas 2025 approaching under a cloud, the family’s actions have divided public opinion—loyalty to a son versus empathy for the victim.

The Courtroom Clash: Outburst Caught on Camera

As Jo and husband Stephen Silvagni—Carlton AFL legend—exited the building arm-in-arm, reporters swarmed for comment. Jo, dressed in black with slicked-back hair, physically rebuffed Sky News reporter Georgie Dickerson, shoving her aside before adding sharp words: “Go away” and “Do your job!”

The exchange contrasted sharply with the couple’s behavior the previous week, when they willingly spoke to media vowing an appeal. Video of the incident spread rapidly online, with many criticizing Jo’s aggression toward journalists simply seeking reaction.

Alleged Glare at Victim: Social Media Erupts

Separate reports described Jo entering the courtroom late—after the victim’s powerful impact statement—and staring directly at the young woman from close range. Onlookers noted the intense gaze as the victim wiped tears, prompting accusations of intimidation.

Clips and descriptions circulated widely on social media, sparking rage. Users condemned the perceived lack of remorse or sympathy from the family, with hashtags amplifying calls for accountability. “How can a mother glare at the victim?” one viral post read, garnering thousands of shares.

The victim, referred to as Samantha Taylor in reports, detailed lasting trauma from the January 2024 assault, calling Tom’s lies “evil.”

Recap: Tom’s Conviction and Sentence

Tom Silvagni, youngest son of Stephen and Jo, was found guilty December 5 of two counts of digital rape against his lifelong friend’s girlfriend. The attack occurred at the family’s former Balwyn North home after Tom tricked her into staying alone.

He attempted cover-up with a forged Uber receipt and denied involvement despite evidence. Sentenced to six years and two months (non-parole three years three months), Tom showed no reaction via video link and maintains innocence.

The family immediately signaled appeal intentions, with Stephen stating goal to “clear his name and bring him home.”

Backlash Hits Jo’s Career: Brands Distance Themselves

Jo’s decades-long role as Chemist Warehouse spokeswoman—plus other endorsements—now faces uncertainty. Public calls for boycotts intensified over the family’s stance, seen by some as prioritizing Tom over the victim.

Chemist Warehouse quietly pulled some ads featuring Jo, with experts predicting a pause in campaigns. “It may be best not to use her for the next three months,” one PR insider noted.

Once a 1990s TV darling, Jo’s image has shifted dramatically amid the saga.

The Silvagni Dynasty: From Glory to Scrutiny

The Silvagnis—spanning AFL icon Sergio (grandfather), Stephen (father), and sons Jack and Ben (players)—were once untouchable royalty. Now, the conviction tarnishes that legacy.

Brothers Jack (St Kilda) and Ben keep low profiles, while Tom’s girlfriend Alannah Iaconis has stood by him silently.

The family has laid low in a luxury rental, with Jo recently spotted taking out trash—her first sighting post-outburst.

Public Divide: Loyalty vs. Empathy

Social media remains ablaze: Some defend parental support, others demand acknowledgment of the victim’s pain. Commentators urge Jo to express regret for the crime, not just the verdict.

As appeal looms into 2026, the case continues gripping Australia. Tom’s first Christmas behind bars underscores the fallout.

Authorities and brands monitor closely, while the victim rebuilds amid ongoing trauma.