Karl Stefanovic has been removed as co-host of Channel Nine's Today show with immediate effect, the network announced on Wednesday. The decision comes after 14 years at the helm of the flagship breakfast programme, which has seen a significant decline in ratings since the departure of co-host Lisa Wilkinson in 2017.
Darren Wick, Nine's director of news, stated that it was 'time for him to step off' the show. Stefanovic will remain with the network to host another programme, This Time Next Year, but his replacement on the breakfast show is expected to be announced within weeks.
The Today show has struggled in the ratings, being soundly beaten by rival Sunrise on Channel Seven in September. Stefanovic's private life has also been under intense tabloid scrutiny in recent weeks.
In a statement, Stefanovic expressed surprise at his long tenure and thanked viewers for their support during 'a tough time'. His departure follows that of his brother, Peter Stefanovic, who left Nine by mutual agreement just days earlier.
Stefanovic's exit comes after a series of controversies, including his use of a derogatory slur on air in 2016, for which he later apologised. In 2017, Wilkinson left the show over a pay dispute, after executives refused to match her salary to Stefanovic's.
