Blast from the past! Karl Stefanovic and Today stars share their formal photos

It doesn’t matter which era you grew up in, no one escaped their teenage years without sporting at least one questionable outfit or dodgy haircut. And earlier today, Aussies were treated to a glimpse of some of the country’s biggest TV stars when they were young.

A series of photographs showing the stars of Channel Nine’s Today at their school formals were aired on television on Thursday morning, revealing what Karl Stefanovic and co-host Allison Langdon looked like before they became household names.

The photographs, which were then shared on the official Today show Instagram account, were shown as part of a discussion about the fact that many teens would miss out on their school formals this year as a result the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

“Recognise anyone?” the social media post read. “With COVID-19 forcing students across the country to miss out on their high school formal, we want to take a look back on better days! Swipe to see some familiar faces at their school formals!!”

One photo showed a young – and very slim – Karl Stefanovic, posing with female companion. The father-of-four assured viewers that the girl was in fact a friend, as he hadn’t been able to secure a date to the dance. Karl’s cheeky grin is instantly recognisable however his floppy hair has changed significantly over the years.

Another photo showed Alex Cullen as a fresh-faced school leaver, in a smart tuxedo with a bright red bow tie.

Many people commented on the Instagram post, with one viewer writing: “Looking Good Guys at your Formal. You have to Feel for Kids not being able to have a Formal because of Covid-19.”

Another joked: “Has Karl grown in to the suit yet?” While another commented: “They are so good, thanks you for sharing your formal photos.”

Brooke Boney’s formal photo was also shared, which showed the entertainment reporter wearing a beautiful patterned dress with co-ordinating earrings. She is pictured alongside a school friend who is wearing a striking red frock.

And lastly, Allison Langdon’s formal photo showed the co-host wearing a navy floor-length gown, which featured a striking cut-out panel across the middle.