Karl Stefanovic has garnered support from high-profile figures Elon Musk and James Packer following his departure from Channel Nine. The Australian television host's exit comes after backlash for an interview on his independently produced podcast with right-wing activist Tommy Robinson, which discussed immigration, Islam, and Australian politics before being removed online.
Billionaire James Packer criticized Channel Nine's handling of the situation, stating to The Sydney Morning Herald, "I think it's pretty hypocritical not to allow Karl editorial independence, especially on something I didn't think was that bad." Packer suggested the network should have allowed Stefanovic more autonomy.
Tech magnate Elon Musk offered a brief reaction on his X platform. Musk responded with "Wow" to a post by commentator Steven Mark Ryan, who detailed the controversy and speculated about Stefanovic's interview. Ryan's post suggested Stefanovic had "unplugged from The Matrix during the SCAMDEMIC" and that the mainstream media had reacted strongly to his podcast conversation.
Stefanovic's departure from Channel Nine is understood to be an early termination of his contract, which had approximately six months remaining and was reportedly worth over $1 million. Sources indicate that the network's decision to part ways was partly to address advertiser concerns and to "defuse a major advertiser boycott."
Stefanovic, who has been a fixture at Channel Nine for over 25 years and hosted the morning show Today for two decades, is reportedly seeking a full payout for the remainder of his contract. He is also said to be looking for a release from his contract to pursue other media opportunities.
Channel Nine had previously stated that Stefanovic's podcast was an independent production not affiliated with the network, but confirmed it was taking the controversy seriously. Stefanovic was reportedly informed by Nine executives that the network wished to conclude their professional relationship.