Channel 9's Today Loses Greatest Television Bromance, Karl Stefanovic Says Teary Goodbyes To Presenter Ben Fordham
Touted as Australia's greatest television bromance, fans would not be able to see Karl Stefanovic and Ben Fordham together on Channel 9's Today show anymore. The presenters themselves had a hard time themselves saying goodbye to each other on national television, with Karl even shedding tears as a result.
Ben Fordham is officially leaving "Today" as a sport presenter. News.com.au reports that on his last morning on the show, he spent considerable time saying goodbye to his colleagues and recalling his favourite heartwarming moments working on the show. However, saying goodbye to close pal Karl Stefanovic proved the hardest. Fans of the onscreen bromance had to see them saying the sweetest things to each other, then deal with the fact that they cannot see them banter around anymore after this.
"Mate you have been the most dear of friends to me ..." Karl said before becoming teary-eyed and getting choked up. "I will never forget how much of a friend you have been to me over the years, through thick and thin, through thick hair and thin hair," Karl added. Karl also gave his best wishes to Ben and said he would be the best dad ever, seeing that he has the best wife. He added that he could not wait to create more memories down the road, even though they would have to do this outside the show from now on. Karl called Ben a "wonderful spirit."
Karl was not the only one tearing up. Everyone around them, including Lisa Wilkinson and Sylvia Jeffreys cannot control the well of emotions that Karl's words invoked. Afterwards, the crew surprised Ben by bring his wife of already three years, Seven Network reporter Jodie Speers onstage to join in the celebration of Ben's last day. The pair was given flowers as well as loads of baby goodies. Ben could not express his gratitude enough, saying he's not sad at all about the goodbye. Ben also shared his excitement of the coming baby.
After his baby is born, which is due next week, it would be some sweet weeks before Ben starts his new job. Daily Telegraph AU reports that he already signed contracts with Nine and 2GB. He is set to make radio his main media commitment for next year.