Rumours surrounding Karl Stefanovic and a potential move away from Nine Entertainment were put directly to the veteran broadcaster this week by politician Barnaby Joyce.
Appearing on Stefanovic’s eponymous podcast, Joyce asked the Today host whether he was “going to grow a set and tell us you’re going to leave Channel Nine?”
Stefanovic sidestepped the speculation, replying: “I’m not an elected official. I’m a paid-up employee, and I love it.”
The conversation then shifted briefly to Joyce’s political future before the former Deputy Prime Minister again returned to the topic, asking: “What’s happening with Channel Nine?”
Stefanovic again declined to engage with the rumours, telling Joyce he was “gainfully employed” and “very happy there”.
Joyce appeared unconvinced, responding: “oh, you bullsh*t artist”.
ARN speculation continues
Speculation surrounding Stefanovic’s future first emerged in a report by The Australian’s Steve Jackson, who wrote in the publication’s Media Diary that Stefanovic had signed a memorandum of understanding with ARN Media following a meeting with CEO Michael Stephenson.
According to the report, Stefanovic is expected to make the move once his television contract expires in December.
Industry sources previously told Mediaweek the speculation aligns with earlier internal discussions about Stefanovic potentially joining ARN, although details surrounding any role remain unclear.
When asked by Mediaweek, Nine denied the reports.
Main image: Karl Stefanovic and Barnaby Joyce