Stefanovic exits Nine after Tommy Robinson podcast

Karl Stefanovic, the longtime host of Nine Network's "Today" show, has parted ways with the broadcaster following a crisis over his independent podcast interview with far-right British activist Tommy Robinson. The network's decision, finalized on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, concludes weeks of escalating tensions and came after the interview sparked significant internal and external backlash.

Stefanovic, 51, was in London on leave when informed of the decision. The interview with Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was published on Tuesday, June 23, on "The Karl Stefanovic Show." During the nearly hour-long conversation, Stefanovic told Robinson he admired his "tenacity and courage." Promotional clips showed Stefanovic with his arm around Robinson and referring to outgoing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer with a derogatory term. The episode was removed from YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Instagram less than 12 hours after its release, though it was later republished in full on the YouTube channel of One Nation leader Pauline Hanson.

Nine executives, who were reportedly blindsided by the interview, held a series of crisis meetings at the network's North...