Nine colleagues have expressed anger over a farewell video posted by Karl Stefanovic following his sudden resignation from the network. Stefanovic, 51, departed the 'Today' show this week after a controversial interview with British far-right activist Tommy Robinson.
According to The Daily Telegraph, Stefanovic's video, in which he declared "I am free," was poorly received by some staffers. One source reportedly stated, "What was he thinking releasing that video while the show was still on air. He doesn't really thank all the people who kept him afloat and does a yippee. I'm stunned he would do that. He's free and we're f***ed."
Stefanovic's co-host Sarah Abo announced his departure live on air, becoming emotional as she revealed he would not be returning to the 'Today' show or Channel Nine. "Look, we know there has been a lot of speculation about Karl's future with the show. Today we wanted to inform you that Karl will not be returning to the Today show or to Nine," she said.
Fill-in host Tom Steinfort explained that Stefanovic's decision to focus on his independent podcast, "The Karl Stefanovic Show," made continuing with the breakfast program impossible. Channel Nine confirmed in a statement to the Daily Mail that they had agreed with Stefanovic that he should leave the show "immediately."
"Nine Entertainment and Karl Stefanovic have agreed that it is no longer possible for him to continue hosting Today at the same time as his independent podcast," the network stated. "While Karl and Nine had previously agreed he would leave Today at the end of this year, they have subsequently decided he will leave the Network immediately."
Stefanovic, who was on leave in London, addressed fans in a video, acknowledging the difficult past few days but expressing happiness at being "truly independent." He thanked his "free to air audience for 21 great years" and his podcast listeners, emphasizing the importance of "freedom of speech."
"The public deserve to hear perspectives. This country was built by, you know, hardworking Aussies from all around the world, and they were bound by the same values, but very different experiences," Stefanovic said in the video. "So on my show, I've spoken to people who have different perspectives. I know that winds some people up. Sometimes I agree with everything a guest says, sometimes I don't. But importantly, you get to make up your mind. You have the right to hear from different voices."
He also thanked sponsors who he said believe in freedom of speech and expressed hope for new sponsors to join the show. Stefanovic was reportedly seeking a full payout for the remainder of his contract, which is said to have six months and over $1 million left.