Karl Stefanovic has broken his silence after Channel Nine officially announced his departure from the network. The long-time host took to YouTube on Friday morning to farewell viewers and colleagues after his exit took effect immediately, leaving him without the chance to sign off on air.
Stefanovic addresses fans directly
“Hey guys, some week, huh? So I’m free. Truly independent,” he began. “I didn’t get the chance to thank my free-to-air audience for 21 great years, so thank you for riding the ups and downs. You have my thanks and you have all of my love.”
Stefanovic also thanked supporters who had reached out in recent days, admitting the experience had been difficult. “To my audience on this show, thank you for your messages over the last couple of days. It has really meant everything to me,” he said. “It wasn’t easy these last couple of days, but we roll on.”
Advocacy for freedom of speech
He then used the video to advocate for freedom of speech. “So here’s what I believe in. The public deserve to hear perspectives,” he said. “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. 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.”
Stefanovic said audiences should be able to hear differing opinions and decide for themselves. “But importantly, you get to make up your mind. You have the right to hear from different voices,” he said. “Freedom of speech here and around the world is what this show is about. You don’t have to listen to my show. You have the power. You are smart enough to make up your own mind.”
Uncertain future
He also thanked sponsors who “believe in the freedom of speech” before admitting he was uncertain about what comes next. “Honestly, I don’t know what I’m going to do, but I’ll figure it out,” he said, before standing up and running barefoot on the grass in the background.
Nine's announcement
The video came after Nine announced Stefanovic would leave the network 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. 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,” the statement reads.
Stefanovic’s former co-host Sarah Abo addressed the incident on the Today program. “Karl has of course woken up with Today for 21 years so we know this is a huge change for our viewers and of course for us ... he is our mate and he is our colleague and it goes without saying Karl’s presence will be missed.”
Controversial interview
Stefanovic’s departure followed his interview with Tommy Robinson on his personal podcast, The Karl Stefanovic Show. Robinson, an anti-Islam activist in the UK, has previous convictions for fraud and stalking. During the almost hour-long interview, Stefanovic said he admired Robinson’s “tenacity” and “courage”. The episode was removed the following morning.
