Karl Stefanovic exits Channel Nine after controversial podcast interview

Veteran Australian presenter Karl Stefanovic is departing Channel Nine, the network confirmed in an email to staff. The announcement stated Stefanovic will not be returning to the "Today" program or the network, concluding a 26-year tenure.

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we know there has been a lot of speculation about Karl's future with the show. This morning, we want to inform you that Karl will not be returning to the Today show, or to Nine.

Stefanovic's departure comes after he hosted controversial UK-based anti-Islam activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, on his podcast, "The Karl Stefanovic Show." The interview generated significant criticism, particularly as Robinson is a divisive figure known for co-founding the now-defunct English Defence League and has faced convictions for contempt of court, fraud, and assault.

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Protecting freedom of speech is at the core of 9News and Current Affairs.

In an internal email, Nine's executive director for news and current affairs, Fiona Dear, acknowledged the situation's difficulty. She stated that "protecting freedom of speech is at the core of 9News and Current Affairs" and highlighted the network's history of interviewing controversial figures. Dear emphasized the journalistic obligation to ask difficult questions and "understand why people are the way they are, or think the way they think."

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We have a rich history of interviewing controversial figures, and journalists have an obligation to ask difficult questions.

During the podcast interview, Robinson made claims about Australians losing their culture and traditional values being under attack. While Stefanovic did not explicitly endorse Robinson's views, he expressed admiration for his "tenacity and courage." The interview, largely removed from Stefanovic's platforms, was later shared online by Australian politician Pauline Hanson. The promotional video for the podcast showed Stefanovic with his arm around Robinson.

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Part of what makes us tick is trying to understand why people are the way they are, or think the way they think. We welcome open debate and challenging norms with constructive, balanced arguments.