Karl Stefanovic will not being returning to Today in 2019, the breakfast program he has hosted for more than 13 years.
The Nine network released a statement this afternoon that read:
“Nine and Karl Stefanovic have agreed it is time for him to step off the Today show.
“Karl remains on contract with the network and will continue to host (his other show) This Time Next Year, which records in February.
“For over 14 years Karl has been at the centre of the Today Show bringing his unique personality and perspective to the day’s news and current affairs.
“An announcement on the new line up and format of the Today Show will be made in the coming weeks.”
The news comes less than 24 hours after Peter Stefanovic announced he would be “exploring new opportunities” and stepping down from his role at Channel Nine.
In a statement, Karl Stefanovic, who is currently on honeymoon in Aspen with his new wife Jasmine Yarbrough, said:
“For the last 14 years I’ve co-hosted the best show on television. I can’t thank Nine enough for the opportunity. I never in my wildest dreams thought I would be good enough to host this grand show for so long.
“Thanks to our viewers mostly, you are what matters most. It’s been a tough time. Thanks for hanging in there. I look forward to seeing you in another capacity at this great Network soon.”
Following Stefanovic’s split from Cassandra Thorburn more than two years ago, and the development of his relationship with 34-year-old Yarbrough, Nine saw a significant decline in viewers.
Sources told news.com.au that Stefanovic had long been a “dead man walking”, as the female audience of the breakfast program had turned on him.
Rumours are circulating today that Sylvia Jeffries will be the next out the door, with entertainment journalist Peter Ford tweeting that the plan is to “redeploy” Jeffries elsewhere.
Top Comments
Congratulations Karl !!!new beginnings !!! Bye channel 9 !!!! They might as well wind up the show!!!
I hope he was sacked due to the fact that he is obnoxious and unlikable, regardless of whats happening in his personal life. I might be on my own here but I just don't see him as a good journalist, he's awkward and talks over people, its truly cringe worthy to watch, maybe many moons ago he was actually a good journalist, before his ego got in the way... Either way, a fresh line up will be welcomed.
You have it in one. His downfall is due to his recent non popularity as a journalist. I hear soooo many people that find him annoying, egotistical and obnoxious. Its not because of personal life.
He's not sacked, he's still employed by Nine, still working for them in other roles.
No doubt they won't renew his contract though.
yes i realise that, he was sacked from today though...
I don't think sacked is the right word. Sacked means dismissed from employment (according to Google), he's still employed, still getting paid.