Karl Stefanovic is scheduled to give a tell-all radio interview with Eddie McGuire to discuss his abrupt departure from Nine Entertainment. McGuire announced Friday that Stefanovic would speak exclusively on his GOLD FM show, "The Long Weekend," in the coming week.
Stefanovic has been on leave overseas following what McGuire described as "the most tumultuous few days of his career." The departure came after a controversial podcast interview with Tommy Robinson, which was uploaded and subsequently deleted from Stefanovic's podcast, "The Karl Stefanovic Show." McGuire confirmed that Stefanovic requested leave amid the fallout from the interview.
Nine Entertainment and Stefanovic reached an "agreeable settlement" for his exit, concluding his 30-year career with the network. McGuire noted Stefanovic's extensive versatility as a performer, having worked as a reporter, foreign correspondent, and long-time host of the "Today" show, in addition to covering major sporting events and political broadcasts.
Sources indicate that Stefanovic is considering legal action against Channel Nine for wrongful dismissal, seeking the remaining balance of his contract, estimated to be between $1 million and $1.5 million for the six months left on his 12-month deal. This move reportedly aims to emulate the approach taken by radio host Kyle Sandilands in a past contract dispute.
Stefanovic had declared himself "free" in a video shared with fans after the announcement of his departure from the "Today" show and Channel Nine. His "Today" co-host, Sarah Abo, had announced the news on air, visibly emotional. Fill-in host Tom Steinfort stated that it was "no longer possible" for Stefanovic to simultaneously host the breakfast show and his independent podcast.
Nine Entertainment confirmed the immediate departure, stating that both parties agreed it was no longer feasible for Stefanovic to continue hosting "Today" while also pursuing his independent podcast. While an end-of-year departure was previously agreed upon, the decision was made to expedite his exit from the network.