Veteran Australian television presenter Karl Stefanovic is reportedly set to leave his role at Nine Entertainment following backlash over an interview on his independently produced podcast with British far-right activist Tommy Robinson. The network is said to be negotiating Stefanovic's exit, with his contract due to expire at the end of the year.
Stefanovic, a prominent figure in Australian television for nearly two decades and formerly the long-time host of the breakfast program Today, launched his podcast in January. The series featured interviews with a range of controversial figures. The episode featuring Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was removed from online platforms shortly after its release this week due to viewer and advertiser criticism.
Nine Entertainment, one of Australia's major commercial broadcasters, has not confirmed Stefanovic's departure but has distanced itself from his podcast. A spokesperson stated that "The Karl Stefanovic Show is a completely independent production. Nine has no involvement, including in the guest selection and other editorial processes. However, Nine is taking this matter seriously."
The Australian and the Sydney Morning Herald, a Nine-owned publication, were among the first to report on Stefanovic's impending exit. Stefanovic, currently on leave in London, has faced mounting pressure regarding his podcast for months, stemming from his guest choices and previous comments on topics such as alleged war crimes in Afghanistan, "woke" culture, and vaccinations.
During his interview with Robinson, Stefanovic reportedly expressed admiration for the activist's "tenacity" and "courage" in "trying to stand up for what you believe is right." Promotional material for the episode also showed Stefanovic with Robinson, and included an offensive term used by Stefanovic to refer to outgoing UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Reports indicate that journalists at Nine have voiced concerns about the impact of Stefanovic's podcast on the company's editorial brand, and advertisers have also expressed dissatisfaction. Stefanovic, who has previously weathered scandals, including appearing on air after an awards show and making disparaging remarks about a co-host, had stepped down from the Today show in late 2018 amid declining ratings and personal life coverage, only to return a year later. He was recognized with television's Gold Logie award for most popular presenter in 2011, building a public persona as a "larrikin" or lovable rogue.