Karl Stefanovic Reflects on Tommy Robinson Interview, Considers Future in Podcasting

Karl Stefanovic, formerly of the 'Today' show, has spoken about the implications of his interview with far-right activist Tommy Robinson, an event that contributed to his departure from the breakfast television program. Stefanovic revealed in a recent podcast appearance that he has given considerable thought to the interview, questioning whether he could have handled it differently.

During an appearance on the 'Beretts' Best' podcast, hosted by Mark Beretta, Stefanovic was asked by David 'Kochie' Koch if he would approach the interview with Robinson any differently if given the chance. Stefanovic stated that it was a question he had considered, acknowledging the subsequent backlash.

"Could I have done things differently... Should I have done this at that point in time?" Stefanovic reflected on his doubts following the interview. He added, "If I have the chance again, I'm not sure. If I did it again, how would it be different?"

Despite the controversy, Stefanovic indicated he would still interview Robinson, citing the activist's ability to mobilize large numbers of people and raise important discussion points.

"I would definitely do him, because I think the calls that he's made on these terrible rape gangs over there, I think it's a worthy discussion point," Stefanovic said. "Also, his positioning over there with the right, and with people who don't have a voice in the UK that he represents. He can get 500,000 to one million people into the street now with one phone call. I think that deserves more explanation in so far as what is he gonna tell those people to do in the next election? How is he gonna influence the cycle?"

Koch, a former breakfast show host himself, challenged Stefanovic, suggesting Robinson fabricates information. Stefanovic responded by stating that such debates can occur on his podcast, emphasizing his commitment to engaging with diverse viewpoints.

"I'll take some of the criticism on board. I'll adapt and adopt it and move forward, but I will keep doing it because I love it, and I do think there's a huge audience out there for it," he said.

Stefanovic also addressed his future in television, confirming he does not plan to return to breakfast television anytime soon. He expressed enthusiasm for the digital media landscape, highlighting his podcasting work.

"No, not now," Stefanovic confirmed. "I think that this digital world is so exciting. I've got a camera at home. I can do six or seven hours of podcasting between 10 am and 1 pm. Then the next day for an hour, and then next day do some (video) links, and then I can travel to the country."

He added his interest in connecting with people in rural areas, stating, "I love talking to country people, to farmers. I just don't know that free-to-air has the latitude and the budget now to go and do these things that I can. I can keep it cheap, but I can also connect in the way that I've always connected. And for me that is such an exciting future."

The interview with Robinson, which was published in June, was subsequently removed from platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Within days, Stefanovic was removed from his long-standing role on the 'Today' show.