Karl Stefanovic exits Nine Entertainment after 26 years

• Karl Stefanovic leaves the network immediately after nearly 21 years hosting the Today show.
• Nine Entertainment shares fell 1.67% to close at $0.885 following the announcement.
• The departure stems from an independent podcast conflict involving a controversial guest.

Nine Entertainment (ASX:NEC) confirmed that television host Karl Stefanovic has left the network immediately after hosting the Today programme for nearly 21 years.

The sudden departure marks an immediate exit from the network, contrasting with a previous agreement where both parties intended for Stefanovic to step down at the end of this year.

“He is our mate and he is our colleague, and it goes without saying that Karl’s presence will be missed,” said Today host Sarah Abo.

The decision followed an announcement on the company's website stating it was no longer possible for Stefanovic to host Today while operating an independent podcast, which recently featured controversial figure Tommy Robinson.

Following the announcement, the Nine Entertainment share price was down at $0.885.

Stefanovic first joined the television network in 2000, establishing a 26-year career to become one of the most visible media personalities in Australia.

The media network stated that the exit represents a change for everyday television viewers across the country.