Television industry insiders have voiced sharp criticism following Karl Stefanovic's departure from Channel Nine. The former host of the Nine Network's "Today" program resigned last week after a controversial interview with far-right activist Tommy Robinson, which he initially posted on his YouTube channel before deleting it amid backlash.
One television personality derided a farewell video Stefanovic posted during his overseas vacation, in which the host declared "I'm free" while appearing to skip through a park in the South of France. "Nothing screams 'Aussie battler' like being on holidays in the South of France," the personality told The Daily Telegraph. "I don't know who is a bigger idiot, Nine or Karl."
Another network executive questioned Stefanovic's appeal to viewers, stating, "He isn't the greatest showman." The executive added that the perception of Stefanovic bringing an audience with him has been proven false, citing a string of unsuccessful prime-time formats. Reports suggest that Channel 7 and Network Ten have privately ruled out hiring Stefanovic, with "The Australian" alleging he is unlikely to host a show on Australian commercial television again.
Stefanovic, who had been with Nine for approximately 25 years, has reportedly reached an undisclosed six-figure settlement with his former employer. This agreement is understood to be part of his termination package, which would have otherwise seen him paid over $1 million for the remaining six months of his 12-month contract.
Following his departure, Stefanovic shared a video expressing his happiness at being "truly independent" and emphasized the importance of freedom of speech. He had been on a two-week leave in the UK when the network decided to part ways with him.
