Karl Stefanovic suits up for Channel Nine visit amid comeback rumours

Karl Stefanovic has suited up for a what looked to be an important visit to the Willoughby offices of his employer, Channel Nine, amid claims that the network’s CEO is backing the former Today host’s bid to reclaim his plum role.

The 45-year-old cut a sleek figure in a sharp navy suit and crisp white business shirt when he stepped out on Thursday for what appears to be a meeting at the Artarmon Rd studios.

The controversial media personality was spotted driving himself into the carpark in a black 4WD, briefly stopping at the security booth before being waved through.

Karl appeared to be in good spirits as he made his way into the building and later emerged with a big grin on his face.

Call it a comeback?

While the purpose of Karl’s visit to Channel Nine remains unknown, it might be a telling sign of things to come for both parties.

Earlier that same day reports emerged that the network’s own chief executive Hugh Marks had put himself (and his personal funds) on the line to restore the beleaguered ex-Today host - who was ousted in December 2018 - to his former glory.

But there’s one catch to Karl’s rumoured comeback: he’d supposedly be forced to fall on his sword and take a ‘major’ cut to his current $2m a year salary.

Channel Nine tells Yahoo Lifestyle that the network is ‘not commenting on these reports’.

Rumours of a return

Whispers of Karl’s suspected comeback are far from new, with an ‘insider’ tweet claiming that both he and fellow Nine talent Allison Langdon were part of the show’s refreshed 2020 line up sparking fresh speculation less than a week ago.

Today’s current hosts - Tom Steinfort, Deb Knight and Brooke Boney - were installed earlier this year but have evidently failed to resonate with audiences as the show’s ratings have since plummetted.

Just last Friday, viewership sank to an all-time low of 155,000 in the five capital cities, however, once again, Channel Nine was quick to shoot down suggestions that Karl and Allison were being brought in to right the ship.

Regardless, Karl appears to see himself as up for the job, referring to himself as Nine’s ‘lucky charm’ during an interview on radio show Fitzy & Wippa last Thursday.

Got a story tip or just want to get in touch? Email us at lifestyle.tips@verizonmedia.com

Want more lifestyle and celebrity news? Follow Yahoo Lifestyle on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Or sign up to our daily newsletter here.