Longtime friend and fellow broadcaster Ben Fordham stated that Karl Stefanovic's recent leanings toward conservative topics were not a surprise, asserting that the television personality has always held such views. Fordham, a 2GB radio host, told news.com.au that Stefanovic was unable to express these beliefs while on the "Today Show."
"This is the real Karl and anyone who thinks there's been a dramatic transformation in Karl Stefanovic hasn't known him as long as I have," Fordham said. "He has always had conservative political views, and maybe he just hasn't had the opportunity to display them on the Today Show."
Fordham described Stefanovic's focus on conservative themes on his new podcast, "The Karl Stefanovic Show," as a natural progression for the presenter, stopping short of labeling him "right-wing."
The commentary comes amid reports that Stefanovic is preparing to resign from his role. This potential departure follows significant backlash after an independently produced podcast interview with British activist Tommy Robinson. The episode, which discussed immigration, Islam, and Australian politics, was subsequently removed online.
Nine, the network where Stefanovic has worked for approximately 25 years, previously emphasized that the podcast was not affiliated with the company but acknowledged taking the controversy seriously. The Sydney Morning Herald reported on Wednesday evening that Stefanovic's exit from Nine was partly intended to avert a potential advertiser boycott. Sources indicated that the network desired to "part ways," with Stefanovic expected to leave immediately. He has six months remaining on his contract, valued at over $1 million.
Billionaires Elon Musk and James Packer have also commented on the situation. Packer expressed criticism of Nine's handling of the matter, stating, "I think it's pretty hypocritical not to allow Karl editorial independence, especially on something I didn't think was that bad." Musk offered a brief reaction on his X platform, responding with "Wow" to a post that discussed Stefanovic's shift in perspective.