Key facts
- Karl Stefanovic has left Nine Entertainment immediately.
- The departure follows controversy over his podcast interview with Tommy Robinson.
- Nine Entertainment stated it was no longer possible for Stefanovic to host 'Today' and maintain his independent podcast.
- Stefanovic's contract with ARN Media for his radio show is under review.
- The interview was removed offline due to viewer and advertiser concerns.
Australian TV presenter Karl Stefanovic has departed Nine Entertainment immediately, with the broadcaster stating it was no longer feasible for him to host the 'Today' show concurrently with his independent podcast. The decision follows days of controversy and backlash over Stefanovic's interview with British far-right activist Tommy Robinson on his podcast series, 'The Long Weekend'.
Nine Entertainment confirmed the mutual agreement for Stefanovic to leave the network, noting that while an end-of-year departure was previously planned, they subsequently decided he would leave immediately. In an internal email, Nine's CEO Matt Stanton informed staff that after more than two decades, it was the right time for Stefanovic to move on from 'Today' and Nine.
The 55-minute interview, during which Stefanovic reportedly expressed admiration for Robinson, was removed offline due to viewer and advertiser concerns. Stefanovic's contract with ARN Media for his radio show with Eddie McGuire is also reportedly under review amid threats of advertising boycotts. ARN Media has stated that Stefanovic's external media activities are undertaken in a personal capacity and do not represent the network's views.