Karl Stefanovic tears up on Ben Fordham’s last day on Nine's Today show
BEN Fordham and Karl Stefanovic fought back tears on their final show together this morning - but the good news is Fordo has a gift for us all.
AUSTRALIA’S greatest television bromance has come to an end.
Ben Fordham is leaving his role as Today’s sport presenter, and has spent the morning farewelling his colleagues and recapping on his favourite moments.
But he became emotional when close pal Karl Stefanovic said his goodbyes, with the pair even shedding a few tears together.
“Mate you have been the most dear of friends to me ...” Karl said before 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.
“You are going to be the best dad, you have the best wife and I can’t wait to create some more memories down the track with you, buddy. You are a wonderful spirit.”
Don't worry @BenFordham, we're feeling the same :( #FarewellFordo #Today9 pic.twitter.com/pc25IQ88oD
â The Today Show (@TheTodayShow) November 20, 2014
There wasn’t dry eye in the place while Stefanovic shared his touching words with his BFF, even Lisa Wilkinson and Sylvia Jeffreys were reaching for the tissues.
Shortly after, the crew surprised Fordo by bringing his wife of three years, Seven Network reporter Jodie Speers, on stage to join in the farewell. The expectant pair were presented with a massive bunch of flowers and a hamper full of baby goodies.
Fordo said: “I’m not sad at all, I’m happy.
“We can’t wait for our little munchkin to come along.”
Going out in style, not only did Fordo promise the team he would do a live cross from the delivery room, he also promised viewers: “I’ll buy any Today show viewer a beer for 12 months.”
#FarewellFordo pic.twitter.com/jO4p6yB8av
â The Today Show (@TheTodayShow) November 20, 2014
Georgie Gardner, who left the show in June after seven years, also appeared on the couch to farewell her former colleague. She had one golden piece of advice for the dad-to-be. “Let me tell you something, throw out the alarm clock,” Gardner said.
I think I just saw a tear roll down @BenFordham 's cheek. Needs a dose of Tay Tay. #FarewellFordo
â Sylvia Jeffreys (@SylviaJeffreys) November 20, 2014
Winding up his four-year stint on the breakfast show, Fordham, 37, is set to become a father for the first time next week when Speers is due to give birth.
Fordham announced he was leaving the show back in March and has signed contracts with Nine and 2GB, with plans to make radio his primary media commitment in 2015 after taking a three-month break.
Weekend Todaysports presenter Tim Gilbert is stepping in to fill Fordham’s shoes. Fordo has known his successor since he was just 17 years old.
Have had a ball on @TheTodayShow for past 4 years but tomorrow it's time to say goodbye as @JodieSpeers and I get ready for a little human !
â BenFordham (@BenFordham) November 20, 2014
Viewers have been taking to social media this morning, wishing the TV favourite all the best for his upcoming journey.
@TheTodayShow @BenFordham all the best. The show will miss your baby blues & professionalism even in times of hot pies! Team #FarewellFordo
â Marley's Muse (@MarleysMention) November 20, 2014
@BenFordham sad to see you go. Good luck in parenthood & radio #allthebest #bestwishes #FarewellFordo #thanks @TheTodayShow
â Kristie (@kristiedavis02) November 20, 2014
Check out young @BenFordham on one of his first news reports! #FarewellFordo #Today9 pic.twitter.com/3GTWAkD321
â The Today Show (@TheTodayShow) November 20, 2014
@TheTodayShow Good luck Ben with your new journey in life. May your new baby bring you much happiness and joy. Keep smiling.
â Sharon Pogorelec (@MsShazza61) November 20, 2014
One last selfie with @BenFordham #FarewellFordo #Today9 pic.twitter.com/jB8QpTIPXv
â The Today Show (@TheTodayShow) November 20, 2014