Influential broadcaster Alan Jones has denied allegations he indecently assaulted several young men throughout his career.

The veteran talkback host, who dominated Australian radio talkback for decades with his 2GB show, was accused of using his position of power to prey on several young men, Sydney Morning Herald investigation claims.

Jones, via his lawyers Mark O’Brien Legal, vehemently denied the claims in a letter to the SMH, saying: “Our client denies ever having indecently assaulted the persons referred to in your letter, and your suggestion that he has is scandalous, grossly offensive and seriously defamatory of him.”

None of the allegations have been referred to police.

In a later statement, his lawyers indicated they were taking the “first step” in launching defamation proceedings.

“The allegations against Alan Jones by Kate McClymont published today in the Nine newspapers are demonstrably false,” the statement said.

“In the short time available since publication we have obtained substantial factual information which contradicts and refutes the alleged pattern of conduct by Mr Jones.

“We have retained Senior Counsel and have instructions to immediately serve a Concerns Notice under Section 12A of the Defamation Act as the first step in the commencement of defamation proceedings.

“There will be no further comment by or on behalf of Mr Jones.”

One former 2GB employee, who did not use his real name, was quoted by the SMH as saying “[Jones] cannot die without people knowing what he’s done”.

Jones was arrested in London in 1988, and charged with “outraging public decency” and “committing an indecent act” over an incident in public toilets in Broadwick Street, Soho.

The charges were dropped and his career was unaffected.

Jones hosted his top-rating radio show on 2GB for two decades before retiring for health reasons in May 2020.

He also hosted The Alan Jones Program on Sky News, before departing in November 2021, saying the network chose not to renew his contract.

Later in 2021, Jones announced he was joining ADH TV, a new right-wing online media network based in inner-Sydney.

Current 2GB breakfast host Ben Fordham said the allegations would be “confronting for many 2GB listeners” when he addressed the SMH report on his program on Thursday.

“We have reached out to Alan this morning to tell his side of the story,” Fordham said.

“He has already offered a denial to The Sydney Morning Herald. Alan knows better than anyone that we don’t shy away from challenging topics, that’s why we’re talking about this case here and now.

“The story that’s been published today doesn’t just impact Alan Jones, it also impacts a number of people who’ve made allegations against him including a former staffer from 2GB.”