As Channel Nine looks for Karl Stefanovic’s successor, one media commentator warned the Today show could face a backlash from loyal viewers following his departure.
Media commentator Jo Casamento said replacing Stefanovic would be about more than simply filling a presenting role.
“One thing I do think Nine may underestimate is Karl’s connection with viewers,” she told Yahoo Lifestyle, especially after his 21-year career on the show.
“Breakfast television is incredibly personal, and audiences become very attached to the people they wake up with every morning.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s some initial backlash or resistance to whoever takes over.
“Replacing Karl won’t be as simple as filling a chair.
“Viewers love him, and they’re getting sick of cancel culture. He’s one of the most recognisable faces on Australian television and has built an incredibly loyal audience over decades.”
Some viewers echoed those sentiments on social media, with several saying they would stop watching the program following Stefanovic’s departure.
“After 30 years of watching Today, we’ll be switching off Nine totally,” one viewer told Yahoo Lifestyle.
“Today show won’t last without Karl,” another wrote.
“Nine is now banned in my house,” a third added.
However, a poll of more than 24,000 readers found just over 70 per cent planned to continue watching the breakfast program. Some respondents also said they would start watching now that Stefanovic had left.
Casamento said she expected Nine to take its time before making a permanent appointment, potentially trialling different presenters to find the right chemistry with the existing team.
She believes that the frontrunner is Tom Steinfort.
“He’s already part of the Today family, viewers know him, and he’s a polished live broadcaster,” Casamento said.
“If Nine is looking for continuity and stability after such a turbulent week, he’s the obvious internal candidate.”
Steinfort, who has worked at Nine for almost 20 years, has been filling in while Stefanovic is in the UK.
He is currently a co-presenter on Nine News Melbourne and a reporter for 60 Minutes.
According to Sportsbet, political reporter Charles Croucher is the favourite to take on the role, ahead of Steinfort.
Other names reportedly in consideration include Rodger Corser, Kris Kohler, David Campbell, Clint Stanaway, Robert Irwin, Sylvia Jeffreys and Samantha Armytage.
Casamento said on-screen chemistry would ultimately be the deciding factor.
“Breakfast television is all about chemistry,” she said.
“I’d expect Nine to road-test a few combinations, monitor audience reaction and take their time before locking in a permanent host.
“They’re not just replacing Karl Stefanovic – they’re deciding what the next era of Today looks like.”
Image: Today Show
