Nine boss forces Karl Stefanovic to take a break

MORNING TV veteran Karl Stefanovic is “happy to take a holiday” after being forced by Channel Nine to take a break and work on his failed marriage.

MORNING TV veteran Karl Stefanovic is “happy to take a holiday” after being forced by Channel Nine to have a break and deal with his family issues.

Starting November 26th, the Today co-host will be rested for at least a month, in the wake of his marriage split from partner of 21 years, Cassandra Thorburn.

“I think any of us would be happy to take a holiday at the end of the year,” Stefanovic’s manager told news.com.au.

Yesterday, Nine news boss Darren Wick told The Daily Telegraph they made the decision so he could come back fresh next year.

“Previously what we’ve done with Karl is that he has often shot 60 Minutes stories over the summer,” Wick said.

“We don’t want him doing that this year — just have a break. Obviously what he’s working through with his family situation ... he needs to have a break and just rest and spend time with his family. He’s going to do that and come back fresh next year.”

It follows news his responsibilities for 2017 will increase — he will be continuing his work on Today and will also host a series on everyday Aussies called This Time Next Year.

Based on a UK format, the series will examine everyday Australians achieving monumental personal goals — whether they be overcoming a setback, falling in love or achieving a world record — over the course of a year.

Karl Stefanovic and Cassandra Thorburn reportedly split in September.