Channel Nine is facing criticism for its handling of Karl Stefanovic's departure from the "Today" show, which occurred last week following a controversial interview with far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Insiders suggest that the network's management of the situation has created a significant advantage for its competitor, Channel Seven's "Sunrise."
One veteran television insider told The Sunday Telegraph that it is "staggering" that Nine has not yet announced a successor for Stefanovic. "Today’s biggest problem is they’ve had years to come up with a succession plan and simply haven’t done it," the insider stated. This individual also noted that potential replacements lack the necessary "It Factor" to draw viewers, describing them as too similar and not enticing prospects.
In contrast, the insider pointed to "Sunrise's" smooth transitions when hosts departed, with replacements like Sam Armytage and Nat Barr ready to take over. The current turmoil at "Today" is seen as potentially strengthening Seven's position in the ratings, with "Sunrise" reportedly experiencing its best viewership numbers in years.
Another senior Australian television personality described Nine's executive handling of the matter as "atrocious," claiming that viewers are more informed than the network's executives. This personality suggested that Nine executives seem content with trailing in second place, leading to the show's perceived decline. The executive added that Nine failed to protect Stefanovic, one of its valuable assets, and that any interim replacement like Jayne Azzopardi or David Campbell would be easily surpassed by "Sunrise."
Stefanovic, 51, may find opportunities limited at rival networks, with both Channel Ten and Seven reportedly ruling out hiring him. He abruptly resigned from Nine last week after uploading an interview with Tommy Robinson to his podcast, "The Karl Stefanovic Show," and subsequently deleting it after facing backlash. Nine stated that Stefanovic could not continue with the network while hosting his podcast.
However, reports indicate that Stefanovic has avoided a legal dispute with his former employer. Stefanovic and Nine are believed to have agreed to an undisclosed six-figure settlement as part of his termination package. Stefanovic, who had been with Nine for approximately 25 years, had over $1 million and six months remaining on his 12-month contract.