The '24-carat f*ckwit' who became Nine's golden boy
Jul 20, 2026 •
After more than two decades at Nine, Karl Stefanovic has left the building.
For years, he was the face of the Today show – surviving ratings slumps, public scandals, internal criticism and a revolving door of female co-hosts.
But after launching his own podcast, and then interviewing far-right British figure Tommy Robinson, Nine finally cut him loose.
Now, people who worked with Stefanovic are speaking out.
Crikey contributor and Fourth Estate host Tina Quinn has spoken to current and former Nine insiders about what he was really like behind the scenes and why the network backed him for so long.
Today, Tina Quinn, on Karl Stefanovic’s rise, his fall from Nine, and whether he can survive without the network that built him.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
The '24-carat f*ckwit' who became Nine's golden boy
1988 • Jul 20, 2026
The '24-carat f*ckwit' who became Nine's golden boy
After more than two decades at Nine, Karl Stefanovic has left the building.
For years, he was the face of the Today show – surviving ratings slumps, public scandals, internal criticism and a revolving door of female co-hosts.
But after launching his own podcast, and then interviewing far-right British figure Tommy Robinson, Nine finally cut him loose.
Now, people who worked with Stefanovic are speaking out.
Crikey contributor and Fourth Estate host Tina Quinn has spoken to current and former Nine insiders about what he was really like behind the scenes and why the network backed him for so long.
Today, Tina Quinn, on Karl Stefanovic’s rise, his fall from Nine, and whether he can survive without the network that built him.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Guest: Host of Fourth Estate on 2SER and Crikey contributor, Tina Quinn
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