Australian TV presenter Karl Stefanovic blasted for racially abusive joke after he asks Indian cricket fan 'who's manning the 7-eleven?'

The fan named Kartik responds by telling Stefanovic he might be out of a job pretty soon

Jack de Menezes
Thursday 26 March 2015 07:53 EDT
Comments
Today Show presenter Karl Stefanovic
Today Show presenter Karl Stefanovic (Getty Images)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

An Australian TV presenter has landed himself in hot water after making a racist remark to an Indian cricket fan during the Cricket World Cup semi-final between the two countries.

Today Show host Karl Stefanovic asked the fan named as Kartik who would be “manning the 7-Elevens”, a chain of convenient stores located across the globe. The racial jibe was quickly picked up on social media and Stefanovic was condemned for his abusive comment.

However, Kartik’s response was nothing short of brilliant – and probably accurate – as he explained Stefanovic might be out of a job pretty soon.

It’s not the first time that Stefanovic has made reference to the convenience store chain and used it in a joke that can be considered racially motivated.

A quick glance at his Twitter account shows two other tweets posted today, in which he also makes reference to New Zealanders working at the store.

“For a variety of reasons it would be sweet as if Australia wins this World Cup. Otherwise I will have to buy my NZ lamb from another 7 11,” one tweet posted by Stefanovic read.

Indian fans cheer on the national side in the World Cup semi-final against Australia
Indian fans cheer on the national side in the World Cup semi-final against Australia (Getty Images)

“I just got charged 21 bucks for a slurpy at the 7 11. What's that about. Great drink though,” the second added.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in