Karl Stefanovic's very awkward return to Today show

It’s been a good eight months since he was controversially axed from the popular breakfast television show, but on Tuesday Karl Stefanovic returned to Today .

The 44-year-old Australian TV presenter was interviewed by none other than former co-host Georgie Gardner and his very own replacement, Deborah Knight.

Despite the polite chatter and laughter as the trio discussed Karl’s highly awaited television comeback as the host of This Time Next Year, it’s safe to say the on-screen reunion was awkward.

Karl’s awkward return to Today

It started with the hosts making light of the fact that Karl was crossing live from Honolulu, Hawaii, where he’s currently working on Channel Nine’s investigative news show, 60 Minutes.

“So fabulous to have you back on the box,” Georgie told Karl, gesturing air quotes with her fingers when referring to his “60 Minutes assignment” in Hawaii.

Meanwhile Deb, who took over from Karl’s top hosting gig at the start of this year, didn’t seem to veil her sarcasm too well when she imitated him, “I’m on assignment that’s right, very serious”.

Stefanovic’s new TV project

But of course, he was on air to speak about This Time Next Year, which will premiere on the network on August 12.

“I think this time around we've gone even wider,” he proudly spoke about the show which helps people transform their lives over the span of 12 months.

“Just the breadth of people and the scope of what they're trying to achieve is something that I know having watched really closely through the first season and the second season,” he continued.

“And I know it's been amped up in the second season and I think people at home will be really blown away by what everyday Australians are trying to achieve.

“They're just like you and I. They might live next door to each other in different communities but when they make a pledge and a promise to fill in a year it's extraordinary. I was completely and utterly blown away by them.”

Gold Logie winner’s controversial history with Today show

The interview comes after Karl visited the KIIS FM studios on Monday, where he cleared up some rumours about his career following his dumping from the Today at the end of last year.

“No one has asked me to go back to the Today show,” he told Kyle and Jackie O.

“I’ve been enjoying myself. I’ve been doing a bit of 60 Minutes and This Time Next Year and for me, it’s a great combination.”

When Karl got the boot from Today in late 2018, his sister-in-law Sylvia also left the show, while brother Peter was shown the door from the network altogether.

Peter has gone on to secure a breakfast gig on Sky News, while Sylvia announced on Monday that she’s landed her own new TV show, Nine News Watch with Sylvia Jeffreys.

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