Karl Stefanovic has broken his silence following his shock departure from Nine, declaring he is “free” and “truly independent” while defending his commitment to giving Australians access to differing viewpoints.

Since his quick exit from Nine, ending a 21-year career, Stefanovic has doubled down on “free speech”, something he has insinuated wasn’t possible with the Today Show.

The former TV host, who says he isn’t right-wing and is just right, took to X to thank trillionaire Elon Musk for creating a platform where free speech was protected.

“Free speech is important. Thanks @elonmusk for this platform,” Stefanovic posted on X.

The post came after Stefanovic took to most platforms to share a link to his YouTube channel, which is monetised, rewarding him for views, to confirm he was “free”.

In a video shared hours after Nine confirmed his immediate exit, the veteran broadcaster thanked viewers for their support across more than two decades on free-to-air television and reflected on the emotional days following his departure.

“I’m free, truly independent,” Stefanovic said.

“I didn’t get the chance to thank my free-to-air audience for 21 great years, so thank you for riding the ups and downs, you have my thanks and you have all of my love.”

He also had a heartfelt message for his former colleagues, singling out Today co-host Sarah Abo.

“To my colleagues, I’ll ring you privately. But Sars (Sarah Abo), look after everyone for me. I know they will miss me desperately.”

Stefanovic also thanked supporters who had contacted him since news of his departure broke.

“To my audience on this show, thank you for your messages over the last couple of days, it has really meant everything to me.”

The television veteran admitted the past few days had been difficult but insisted he was looking ahead.

“It wasn’t easy this last couple of days, but we roll on.”

Stefanovic also used the video to explain the philosophy behind his independent podcast, saying he believed Australians should hear a range of perspectives and make up their own minds.

“Here’s what I believe in. The public deserves to hear perspectives. This country was built by hard-working Aussies from all around the world and they were bound by the same values but very different experiences.”

“So on my show I’ve spoken to people who have different perspectives and I know that winds people up.”

“Sometimes I agree with everything a guest says and sometimes I don’t. But more importantly, YOU (the viewer) get to make up your mind.”

“Freedom of speech is what this show is about.”

Stefanovic ended the video by admitting he was unsure what came next.

“Honestly, I don’t know what I am going to do. But I’ll figure it out.”

With a wink to the camera, he jumped to his feet, performed a playful heel kick while barefoot and ran out of frame.

The video came just hours after Nine announced Stefanovic would leave the network immediately, bringing forward his previously planned departure following controversy surrounding his independent podcast.

In a statement released shortly afterwards, Nine said the pair had mutually agreed it was no longer workable for Stefanovic to continue hosting the breakfast program while producing his independent podcast.

“Nine Entertainment and Karl Stefanovic have agreed that it is no longer possible for him to continue hosting Today at the same time as his independent podcast,” the statement read.

“While Karl and Nine had previously agreed he would leave Today at the end of this year, they have subsequently decided he will leave the network immediately.”

Stefanovic’s departure follows intense scrutiny over his interview with far-right British activist Tommy Robinson, which triggered widespread backlash and sparked questions about his future with the network.

Former co-host Sarah Abo fought back tears as she announced Karl Stefanovic’s departure from the Today show on Friday morning.

“Karl will not be returning to the Today show or to Nine,” she told viewers.