Georgie Gardner reveals what her relationship with Karl Stefanovic is really like
As the Today show struggles to compete with Sunrise’s ratings, co-host Georgie Gardner has revealed the truth behind her relationship with Karl Stefanovic.
In an interview with Stellar magazine, Gardner reflect on her dynamic with Stefanovic, admitting that she is “still trying to find [her] groove” and despite their on-screen chemistry, they are not as close as they may appear to be.
"Good chemistry doesn’t necessarily equate to being best friends," Gardner told the publication.
"Relationships by their very nature are often complex, and when it’s in those hosting chairs on national TV, you’re exposed. But that’s interesting."
Last year, entertainment reporter Peter Ford claimed that Stefanovic “rates poorly” with female viewers after his separation with his previous wife of 21-years Cassandra Thorburn.
Gardner also confessed that she has had to adjust to the level of physical scrutiny that she forced to deal with her in her job.
"I was someone who was always very self-conscious of my looks. I was the plain, chubby teenager who never in a million years would have dreamt of a career in TV."
"I don’t let it overwhelm me. In a way, I think I took some comfort in knowing I wasn’t hired for my looks to be honest. I didn’t feel that pressure."
Gardner replaced Lisa Wilkinson on Today in January and was Channel Nine’s first choice for her replacement.
Gardner denied rumours that she initially turned down the gig but said that she spent a long time thinking about it.
“I wanted to be absolutely sure I was ready, and that I was right for the network, and right for the show,” she said.
“There is no other gig like it.
“My feeling is you only get asked once in your career and, at age 47, the time was right. I had life experience behind me, hopefully something to offer, and great encouragement from management at Nine. To me, it was time.”