Media personality Karl Stefanovic is reportedly embroiled in a contentious battle with his business partner, Keshnee Kemp, over the ownership stakes in their podcast company, 123 Podcast. The dispute has led to the abrupt halt of "The Karl Stefanovic Show," with no clear indication of its return.
Stefanovic, along with Kemp—who is also his wife Jasmine's close friend—each hold a 45 percent stake in the company. Kemp's husband, banking executive Jason Ibrahim, is also a partner. According to reports, Stefanovic regrets granting such a substantial share to Kemp, viewing it as relinquishing too much of his intellectual property.
The disagreement escalated as Stefanovic sought majority control of the startup, which was registered just two weeks after the podcast's debut. Kemp reportedly offered to sell her shares, but at a price Stefanovic found excessive.
The stakes in 123 Podcast are rounded out by celebrity accountant Anthony Bell, who holds the remaining 10 percent.
The timing of the dispute may be linked to Stefanovic's recent professional setbacks. He lost his $2.8 million-a-year role as co-host of Nine's "Today" show on June 25 and subsequently his radio gig with Eddie McGuire on ARN. This financial pressure is believed to have intensified his regret over the company share distribution.
"The Karl Stefanovic Show" has been on hiatus since August 24. Fans have expressed concern and confusion on social media, with the podcast's official Facebook page reportedly deactivated. Inquiries about upcoming episodes, including a promised interview with billionaire businessman Adrian Portelli, have gone unanswered.
Stefanovic's public visibility has also diminished. His primary sponsorship deal with clothing brand Ringers Western concluded without renewal, and he has not posted on his personal social media accounts for over a week. His last public video, posted on August 29, showed him enjoying the countryside. While he appeared in recent social media posts from his wife Jasmine, indicating a personal outing, he has not directly addressed the podcast's absence or the ongoing dispute.
Kemp has also remained silent regarding the podcast's hiatus, despite maintaining an active online presence. Representatives for Stefanovic and Kemp have not yet commented on the situation.