The Gen Z TikTok star ‘hand-picked’ by Karl Stefanovic to replace him on the Today show revealed – as the host eyes move to radio

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Karl Stefanovic may soon leave an empty chair on the Today show. 

I’ve been following the news closely, and with all the talk about our favorite breakfast TV host possibly moving to radio, everyone’s already wondering who could possibly fill his shoes! It’s got me thinking about potential replacements, and it’s exciting – and a little sad – to consider a change.

TikTok star Chaad Hewitt, a popular figure with nearly half a million followers, is currently a hot topic in the entertainment industry.

This 21-year-old has previously contributed reports to Today and is considered a rising talent with potential for a full-time role on the show.

According to New Idea magazine, Karl personally selected Chaad and believes he’s well-prepared for the job.

Nine is searching for young creators who already have a following and understand what makes content go viral, according to a source who spoke with New Idea. This is the current approach they’re taking.

It’s understandable that the network executives are looking for fresh ideas. Since Today is still lagging behind Sunrise in viewership, they need to shake things up and try a different approach.

There’s new speculation about Karl Stefanovic’s future at Channel Nine. Sources say the longtime TV host is considering a surprising career change to commercial radio.

The Australian’s Media Diary reports that Karl Stefanovic, host of the Today show, has reached a preliminary agreement with radio network ARN. This suggests he might move to ARN after his contract with Nine ends in December.

According to the report, Karl is looking for a well-known personality to co-host with him, and Carrie Bickmore, previously on ‘The Project,’ is a strong contender.

Bickmore currently fronts a national drive program on the Hit Network.

Michael Stephenson, the new CEO of ARN, is reportedly planning a significant refresh of on-air talent, with several well-known Australian media personalities – including Ben Fordham, Ray Hadley, Samantha Armytage, and Erin Molan – being considered.

Rumors about Stefanovic’s job security increased after entertainment reporter Peter Ford made a surprising forecast on the 3AW Breakfast show.

Ford mentioned that rumors have been circulating in the industry for a couple of months regarding Karl, who recently signed a new one-year contract.

‘I’d be surprised if Karl actually sees the year out to be honest.’

As longtime television hosts Sarah Abo, 39, and her co-host begin what many in the industry suspect will be their last season trying to boost ratings, speculation is growing about their future as a team.

Several leaders within the network believe the ‘Today’ show needs a complete revamp to compete with Channel Seven’s ‘Sunrise’. They suggest essentially starting over with a new format if they want to improve their ratings.

Speculation has been swirling about who could replace Karl in the coveted co-hosting role.

Both Tom Steinfort, a newsreader in Melbourne, and Joel Dry, the new evening anchor in Brisbane, are potential candidates to replace Karl.

Okay, so I’ve heard whispers, really strong whispers, that Channel Nine is seriously considering trying to steal Matt Shirvington from Sunrise! I mean, can you believe it? Everyone’s talking about how they’re eyeing him up. It’s a bold move, but honestly, I wouldn’t put it past them. He’s just that good, and they clearly know it!

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2026-04-06 16:21