Sylvia Jeffreys and Tom Steinfort named as permanent Today show hosts

Karl Stefanovic's Controversial Exit and Legal Fallout

The departure of Karl Stefanovic from Nine's Today Show in June 2026 marked a turning point for the network's morning programming. Stefanovic, who had hosted the show for 26 years, was suspended after an interview with British far-right activist Tommy Robinson aired on his independent podcast. The episode, published on June 23, was removed the following day amid public backlash. Nine cited "incompatibility" between his podcast work and network obligations, severing ties with the veteran presenter.

The fallout extended into legal territory as Stefanovic and his business partner Keshnee Ibrahim, co-owner of his podcast company, faced a court dispute. Ibrahim sought to delay a scheduled meeting over their business relationship, while Stefanovic's lawyer indicated a potential buyout agreement could be resolved by next week. The conflict underscored the tensions between personal ventures and network loyalty, leaving a void that Nine now seeks to fill with its new hosts.

Sarah Abo's Maternity Leave and Departure

Sarah Abo, who joined the Today Show in 2023 as Stefanovic's co-host, announced her departure in late September 2026, citing personal and professional transitions. Her exit followed four years on the program, during which she became a familiar face to Australian audiences. Abo, who welcomed her son Sonny in July 2026, stated she was "grateful to our viewers for letting me into your homes" and emphasized the importance of family in her decision. Her final episode is set for the end of 2026, with Nine confirming she will not return to the show.

Abo's departure came after a period of transition on the Today Show, as Stefanovic's exit in June left the program without a permanent co-host. During this time, Sylvia Jeffreys and Tom Steinfort served as acting hosts, with their performances influencing Nine's decision to appoint them permanently. The network's Executive Director of News and Current Affairs, Fiona Dear, highlighted their "incredible" contributions and stated they would "successfully steer the show into its new era."

Jeffreys and Steinfort's Rise to Permanent Co-Hosts

Sylvia Jeffreys and Tom Steinfort, both seasoned journalists, have been elevated to permanent co-hosts after months of acting in the role. Jeffreys, previously of Today Extra, and Steinfort, a 9News Melbourne presenter, bring a combined four decades of experience to the breakfast program. Their appointment follows extensive research into viewer preferences and audience feedback, as noted by Nine in a statement. The network emphasized their ability to "bring trusted news, entertainment, and great Aussie characters" to the show.

Jeffreys reflected on her 15-year tenure with the Today family, stating it "feels like home" and expressing pride in continuing the program's legacy. Steinfort, meanwhile, joked about the early mornings but praised Jeffreys as a "brilliant broadcaster" and "great mate." Both hosts acknowledged the support of the Today team, with Steinfort highlighting the "incredible" audience that has "always been there for us."

Next Steps for Today Show's 2027 Rebrand

With Jeffreys and Steinfort officially in place, Nine is set to unveil changes to the Today Show's format, pace, and commercial integrations during its 2027 Upfront presentation. The network has emphasized a focus on "trusted news" and "great Aussie characters," signaling a shift in the program's approach. Meanwhile, the legal dispute between Karl Stefanovic and Keshnee Ibrahim remains unresolved, with potential implications for his future in media.

The transition marks a pivotal moment for Australia's longest-running breakfast program, which has navigated significant upheaval in 2026. As Jeffreys and Steinfort prepare to lead the show into its next chapter, the network's commitment to "first-class journalism" and audience engagement will be critical in maintaining its prominence in the competitive morning television landscape.

The coming months will test the new hosts' ability to balance journalistic rigor with the show's signature warmth, as Nine aims to rebuild its morning television identity. With the Karl Stefanovic legal case still pending and the 2027 Upfront approaching, the network's strategy for the Today Show will be closely watched by audiences and industry observers alike.