Top TV host missing during major news week—here’s what we know
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High-profile media absences often spark speculation, especially when they coincide with major events.
So, when one of Australia's most recognisable breakfast TV hosts was noticeably missing during a pivotal news week, questions quickly arose about what might be happening behind the scenes.
Could this signal a shift in network dynamics, or is there something more at play?
Karl Stefanovic’s absence from Today this week set off speculation about his ongoing contract negotiations with Nine.
With the year still in its early months, it seemed unusual for the breakfast show host to be on leave, particularly during a major news cycle that included the federal budget and the start of the election campaign.
Nine’s publicists confirmed that Stefanovic was on leave and would return on 7 April.
His absence left prime-time sports presenter James Bracey to step in, delivering a performance reminiscent of Nine Radio’s Ben Fordham—right down to his ability to devour a cream bun in record time.
Ratings for Today have been struggling in Sydney, Stefanovic’s hometown, since the start of the year, giving Sunrise an even bigger lead in the breakfast TV battle.
As Stefanovic reportedly negotiates his contract, the declining viewership may not work in his favour, especially if he is aiming for a pay rise.
The fate of his former co-host, Alex Cullen, who exited the network earlier this year, serves as a reminder that high-profile roles do not always come with job security.
Meanwhile, Stefanovic’s long-time ambition of hosting a late-night show may have taken a hit after Sam Pang Tonight saw a sharp decline in its second week, dropping from 799,000 viewers to 575,000 across national and regional audiences.
Adding to the intrigue, Nine opted to leave Stefanovic out of its federal budget coverage, instead handing the 10:00 pm slot to Sydney news anchor Peter Overton alongside reporters Charles Croucher, Andrew Probyn, and money editor Effie Zahos.
With Stefanovic reportedly earning around $3 million a year, speculation is mounting that Nine may be looking to slash his pay.
If that happens, it could mark the end of his highly profitable run on Today .
Stefanovic has had plenty of memorable moments on-air, making his absence all the more noticeable.
Watch some of his most unforgettable highlights in the video below.
Here are more of his best moments on TV.
If Stefanovic’s time on Today is nearing its end, who could step in to fill his shoes? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
So, when one of Australia's most recognisable breakfast TV hosts was noticeably missing during a pivotal news week, questions quickly arose about what might be happening behind the scenes.
Could this signal a shift in network dynamics, or is there something more at play?
Karl Stefanovic’s absence from Today this week set off speculation about his ongoing contract negotiations with Nine.
With the year still in its early months, it seemed unusual for the breakfast show host to be on leave, particularly during a major news cycle that included the federal budget and the start of the election campaign.
Nine’s publicists confirmed that Stefanovic was on leave and would return on 7 April.
Karl Stefanovic’s sudden absence sparks speculation. Image source: Nine
His absence left prime-time sports presenter James Bracey to step in, delivering a performance reminiscent of Nine Radio’s Ben Fordham—right down to his ability to devour a cream bun in record time.
Ratings for Today have been struggling in Sydney, Stefanovic’s hometown, since the start of the year, giving Sunrise an even bigger lead in the breakfast TV battle.
As Stefanovic reportedly negotiates his contract, the declining viewership may not work in his favour, especially if he is aiming for a pay rise.
The fate of his former co-host, Alex Cullen, who exited the network earlier this year, serves as a reminder that high-profile roles do not always come with job security.
Meanwhile, Stefanovic’s long-time ambition of hosting a late-night show may have taken a hit after Sam Pang Tonight saw a sharp decline in its second week, dropping from 799,000 viewers to 575,000 across national and regional audiences.
Adding to the intrigue, Nine opted to leave Stefanovic out of its federal budget coverage, instead handing the 10:00 pm slot to Sydney news anchor Peter Overton alongside reporters Charles Croucher, Andrew Probyn, and money editor Effie Zahos.
With Stefanovic reportedly earning around $3 million a year, speculation is mounting that Nine may be looking to slash his pay.
If that happens, it could mark the end of his highly profitable run on Today .
Stefanovic has had plenty of memorable moments on-air, making his absence all the more noticeable.
Watch some of his most unforgettable highlights in the video below.
Here are more of his best moments on TV.
If Stefanovic’s time on Today is nearing its end, who could step in to fill his shoes? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
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