A letter from Dean Peter Catt of St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane, explaining his involvement in the Stan TV show that featured a porn star has been released today. Dean Catt also announces his retirement after 20 years at St John’s in the letter, which is also announced in a letter to clergy from his Archbishop, Jeremy Greaves. A leading progressive leader in the Anglican Church, Dr Catt will return to work on Thursday 17 September and conduct his final service as Dean on Sunday 27 September.
The letter makes it clear that the Stan TV incident has caused Dean Catt to see it is time for him to conclude his ministry at the cathedral.
Dean Catt writes:
10 September 2026
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ I am writing to address the Cathedral’s involvement in the Stan series Turned On: Dirty Sexy Money and to let you know that, after prayerful reflection and consultation with the Archbishop and Cathedral team, I have decided to retire as Dean. It was my decision for the Cathedral to participate in a television show that was later named Turned On: Dirty Sexy Money. I come from a place of faith, love and acceptance and I believe everyone has the right to connect with their faith.
But, I understand my decision has caused distress and concern within the faith community. I was told the show was a documentary about an influencer seeking to reconnect with her Christian faith, and there was no commercial arrangement.
As part of the preparation for the Reaffirmation Ceremony, I spent several hours in conversation with Lily about her faith journey. My intention was to offer the sacramental hospitality of the Cathedral, which is always open to those who seek God’s grace.
Nevertheless, I did not ensure sufficient protections for the Cathedral, and the show that aired is very different from what I envisaged and agreed to. My arrangement with the producers of this show was limited to my own participation and no other member of the Cathedral community. However, footage taken during filming. including members of our congregation and children, was included in the programme when it first aired.
I deeply regret that this happened and unreservedly apologise. I would like to let you know that the producers have apologised and acknowledged their error in accidentally including members of the congregation in the program, and have blurred or removed anyone who was shown.
St John’s Cathedral is a place of generous welcome, where the transformative love of God is open to all people. To lead this community has been an immense privilege and responsibility. I am deeply saddened by the impact of this situation on all concerned and therefore came to realise that it is time for me to conclude this chapter of ministry. I will return from annual leave in mid September and my last Sunday at St John’s will be September 27. I ask for your prayers for all those affected, and for the Cathedral community as we move through the period ahead.
Grace and peace
Peter+
Background to this story:
https://theothercheek.com.au/a-controversial-baptism-at-brisbane-cathedral/
https://theothercheek.com.au/brisbane-archbishop-apologises-for-stan-porn-star-video