Karl Stefanovic's rapid transformation from a beloved breakfast TV host to a rightwing podcast figure has sparked a warning from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, though some public figures have expressed support for his controversial interview.
Tommy Robinson Interview Ignites Backlash
The Today show host invited convicted criminal and far-right agitator Tommy Robinson (real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon) onto his independent podcast, prompting criticism from media and political circles. Nine executives deemed the interview incompatible with Stefanovic's family-friendly morning show role.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said the appearance made him “cringe” and “crosses the line.” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who previously appeared on Stefanovic's podcast, warned of people going “further and further out on the edges of what is mainstream political debate.”
Support from Hanson, Packer
However, Pauline Hanson offered Stefanovic a job with One Nation, saying Nine would be “bloody stupid” to let him go. James Packer said he “didn’t think it was that bad.” On The Front podcast by The Australian, editorial director Claire Harvey and media diary editor Steve Jackson agreed that interviewing Robinson was not a “bad thing,” noting a “massive audience” for “provocative, right-wing content.” Jackson added that the problem was Stefanovic advocating for Robinson, calling him a “great bloke,” which he said was “publicity, not an interview.”
Logie Controversy and Ratings Debate
Stefanovic is nominated for a Logie with co-host Sarah Abo, angering former Sunrise host David Koch, who criticized the exclusion of Sunrise from the most popular news presenter category despite higher ratings. Nine newspapers argued ratings are not a major factor in nominations, which operate on “more of a vibe.” Industry veteran Rob McKnight countered that ratings are considered. TV Tonight noted the nomination process remains opaque.
Pauline Hanson's Witch Claim Debunked
After Hanson suggested Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan should “suck it up, sweetheart” over a billboard depicting her as a witch, One Nation claimed former deputy PM Tim Fischer had called Hanson a witch who should be burned at the stake. Fischer's widow, Judy Brewer, challenged the claim. Researcher Daniel Best traced the quote to a local activist, Terry Andrews, who compared Hanson to Joan of Arc. Hanson admitted she “read it in the newspaper.”
Fond Farewell to ABC Producer
ABC Sydney bid farewell to producer Yusuke Aso after 36 years. Presenter Hamish McDonald praised Aso as a “rock star” and “true gentleman.” Aso's phone contact list grew to 40,000 names, requiring a backup drive.
Journalist Backflip
Channel Seven Adelaide police reporter Hannah Foord resigned to work for SA opposition leader Ashton Hurn but later secured an interview with Josie Murray, grandmother of missing boy Gus Lamont, and then abandoned her plans to stay with Seven.
Royal Commission into Antisemitism
The royal commission into antisemitism and social cohesion will hold public hearings from Monday, focusing on the role of media and social media. ABC, SBS, and Meta are expected to give evidence.
Polling Blunders
Sunrise published a graph showing One Nation at 49% primary vote, likely a misreading of a Roy Morgan poll. The actual One Nation primary was 31.5%, and the Coalition 17.5%, summing to 117.5%.
