Karl Stefanovic to leave Nine immediately after Today host’s podcast controversy

Karl Stefanovic is leaving Nine immediately, the network said in a statement on Friday. It was presented as a joint decision, however it follows days of controversy after the highly paid Today presenter used his independent podcast series to interview British far-right activist Tommy Robinson. “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,” a Nine Entertainment spokesperson said. “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 Today show host’s departure was announced on the breakfast show he hosted on and off for more than 20 years just after 6am by his co-host, Sarah Abo.