Karl Stefanovic: Nine colleagues fuming over TV presenter’s ‘free’ video after sensational exit from network

It has been reported that Karl Stefanovic’s farewell message was disappointing within Nine, and his colleagues were outraged after the TV presenter declared himself “free” in a video on social media following his sensational departure from the network.

The former Today presenter broke his silence just hours after Nine announced he would leave the network immediately, posting a casual video thanking viewers before telling supporters he was now “free” and “truly independent”.

“Hello friends, in a week huh, I’m free now, really independent,” he said in the video.

“I haven’t had a chance to thank my free streaming viewers for 21 wonderful years, so thank you for getting me through the ups and downs, I have my thanks and all my love.

“To my viewers on this show, thank you for your messages over the last few days, it really meant a lot to me.”

The TV veteran admitted the last few days have been tough but insisted he is looking forward.

“It hasn’t been easy the last few days, but we’re moving forward.”

He also singled out Today co-host Sarah Abo as he delivered a heartfelt message to his former colleagues.

“My colleagues, I will call you privately. But Sars (Sarah Abo), keep an eye on everyone for me. I know they will miss me very much.”

But according to Daily TelegraphThe timing of the video angered some former colleagues, with a Nine insider saying it undermined the emotional live-on-air farewell.

“What was he thinking when he posted that video while the show was still on air,” the leading Nine figure reportedly said.

“He doesn’t really thank the people who keep him afloat and do a yipee. I’m surprised he does that.”

“He is free and we are fed.”

The video came just hours after Nine announced Stefanovic would leave the network with immediate effect, highlighting his pre-planned departure following controversy surrounding his independent podcast.

In a statement released shortly afterwards, Nine said the pair had mutually agreed that it was no longer possible for Stefanovic to continue hosting the breakfast show while producing his independent podcast.

“Nine Entertainment and Karl Stefanovic have agreed that it is no longer possible for him to host Today simultaneously with his independent podcast,” the statement said.

“Although Karl and Nine had previously agreed that he would leave Today at the end of this year, they later decided that he would leave the network immediately.”

Stefanovic’s departure came after intense scrutiny of his interview with far-right British activist Tommy Robinson; This interview sparked widespread backlash and raised questions about her future at the channel.

Former co-host Sarah Abo fought back tears as she announced that Karl Stefanovic is leaving the Today show on Friday morning.

“Karl will not be returning to the Today show or Nine,” she told viewers.