Tech giant Elon Musk has weighed in on the recent exit of Australian television host Karl Stefanovic from the Nine Network, posting a one-word reaction on his X platform. Stefanovic, who left the network after backlash over an interview, subsequently thanked Musk for his support and for the platform.
Musk's comment came after Stefanovic's departure from the Nine Network, where he had been a host on the breakfast program "Today" for approximately two decades. The exit followed an independently produced podcast interview Stefanovic conducted with right-wing activist Tommy Robinson. The interview, which touched on immigration, Islam, and Australian politics, was quickly removed online.
Stefanovic was informed by Nine executives that the network wished to part ways with him nearly six months before his contract was set to expire. Reports suggest the decision was influenced by advertiser concerns and a desire to "defuse a major advertiser boycott." Stefanovic, who has been with Nine for over 25 years, had six months remaining on his 12-month contract, valued at over $1 million.
Musk's reaction, a simple "Wow," was posted in reply to a comment from Steven Mark Ryan, who had written a lengthy post discussing Stefanovic's interview and suggesting he had "unplugged from The Matrix during the SCAMDEMIC." Ryan speculated that Stefanovic had been fired after the interview caused controversy.
Following Musk's comment, Stefanovic responded on his X account, stating, "Free speech is important. Thanks @elonmusk for this platform." He also acknowledged other public figures, including James Packer, who had commented on his exit.
Nine confirmed Stefanovic's departure, stating in a release that "Nine Entertainment and Karl Stefanovic have agreed that it is no longer possible for him to continue hosting Today at the same time as his independent podcast." While Stefanovic and the network had previously agreed he would leave "Today" at the end of the year, the decision was made for him to leave the network immediately.
Stefanovic addressed his "Today" show audience in a video, reportedly filmed in London, stating the recent days had "hadn't been easy" but expressed happiness at being "truly independent." He also sent a message to his co-host, Sarah Abo, urging her to take care of the "Today" team. Abo had announced Stefanovic's departure on air, reportedly becoming emotional.
Fill-in host Tom Steinfort stated that Stefanovic would be focusing all his energy on his independent podcast, "The Karl Stefanovic Show," as continuing both roles was no longer feasible.