Sam Armytage has commented on the departure of Karl Stefanovic from the Nine Network's breakfast show, "Today," and addressed speculation about her own potential return to the program. Stefanovic recently left Nine following a controversial interview with British far-right activist Tommy Robinson on his podcast.
Armytage, speaking to the Daily Telegraph, expressed support for Stefanovic, describing him as "very good at what he does." She added, "I wish him well with his new project. He's in his 50s now. I think your life changes in your 50s. You start thinking differently."
Regarding rumors that she might replace Stefanovic, Armytage stated that she has not yet signed a contract. "I love breakfast TV. I've done it for a long time. I know how to do it, I enjoy it, and I'm doing some fill-in stuff coming up, which will be great," she said. "But there is no job offered."
Channel Nine is reportedly considering Armytage and Sylvia Jeffreys as fill-in hosts as they search for a permanent replacement for Stefanovic. Both presenters are expected to co-host the program over the coming weeks while the network evaluates potential on-air partnerships. This comes as "Today" faces ongoing ratings challenges, trailing behind Seven's "Sunrise."
The network is also reportedly considering its broader presenting team. Longtime Newcastle NBN newsreader Jane Goldsmith is rumored to be a contender for the newsreading role. The departure of Stefanovic and the upcoming maternity leave for co-host Sarah Abo are seen as opportunities for Nine to test new line-ups for the struggling breakfast show.
Meanwhile, the Nine Network has reportedly dropped the new radio show "The Long Weekend" from its streaming platforms following Stefanovic's exit. The show, which Stefanovic was slated to co-host with Eddie McGuire, can now only be heard on Gold FM. An episode available on Nine features McGuire addressing Stefanovic's absence after his interview with Tommy Robinson. Stefanovic appeared in only two episodes of "The Long Weekend."