Channel Nine presenter Karl Stefanovic has left the network effective immediately, following controversy over an interview he conducted with British activist Tommy Robinson on his independent podcast. The departure was announced via internal email and confirmed on the Today program.
Summary
Stefanovic, who had been with Nine for 26 years, hosted an interview with Tommy Robinson on The Karl Stefanovic Show, a podcast produced independently of the network. The interview was removed from multiple platforms within 12 hours. Nine initially stated it had no involvement in the podcast's editorial decisions but later said it was "taking this matter seriously." Subsequently, Nine and Stefanovic agreed to his immediate departure from the network.
Key Events
Interview and Removal
Stefanovic's podcast episode featuring Tommy Robinson was published in late July 2024. Within 12 hours, the episode was removed from YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Instagram. A promotional clip, which showed Stefanovic walking with Robinson and referring to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer with a derogatory term, was also removed from Instagram but remained on Stefanovic's X (formerly Twitter) feed.
Network Response
Nine Entertainment stated that The Karl Stefanovic Show is "a completely independent production" and that Nine "has no involvement, including in the guest selection and other editorial processes." The network later added that it was "taking this matter seriously."
Departure Negotiations
According to reports from multiple outlets, crisis meetings were held at Nine's Sydney headquarters. Negotiations for Stefanovic's departure were subsequently confirmed. Stefanovic was paid an annual salary of $2.8 million.
Announcement
On the day of the departure, Today co-host Sarah Abo stated that Stefanovic would not return to the program or Nine. Nine's executive director of news and current affairs, Fiona Dear, said the situation was "challenging" and that the network protects freedom of speech but must uphold its brand, which is "built on trust and respect."
Interview Content
In the interview, Stefanovic referred to Robinson as "courageous" and praised his "tenacity" for standing up for what he believes. Stefanovic did not challenge Robinson's statements regarding Islam and immigration. Robinson expressed admiration for Australian Senator Pauline Hanson.
In a separate episode of the podcast, Stefanovic interviewed Ant Middleton, a former soldier who has spoken at Robinson's rallies.
Tommy Robinson Background
Tommy Robinson, whose legal name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is a British activist. He is a co-founder of the English Defence League. Robinson has multiple criminal convictions, including for assault, fraud, stalking, and contempt of court. He was recently detained by British police under counter-terrorism laws.
Reactions
Pauline Hanson (One Nation leader): Claimed Nine was "trying to sack my good friend Karl Stefanovic" and reposted the full interview on her YouTube channel and on X.
Independent MP Sophie Scamps: Posted that Nine "needs to seriously consider its association with Stefanovic."
Senator Matt Canavan: Defended Stefanovic, stating journalists should "not lose their jobs for interviewing controversial people."
Minister Tony Burke: Stated that Tommy Robinson would not receive a visa to enter Australia.
Former Nine News boss Peter Meakin: Described the interview as "unprofessional" and stated it gave Robinson an "unchallenged platform."
Stefanovic's Statement
In a farewell message, Stefanovic stated he is "free, truly independent" and defended his choice of interviewees. He announced upcoming podcast guests.
Outcome
- Karl Stefanovic is no longer a host of the Today show or an employee of Channel Nine.
- The podcast interview with Tommy Robinson remains unavailable on most major platforms at the time of reporting.