The Kelly Clarkson Show “could collapse at any minute” after the American Idol star made a brutal dig aimed at Meghan Markle’s With, Love show on Netflix. A stressed producer has revealed that behind the scenes staff have reportedly begged former Today host Hoda Kotb to replace her.
The show which debuted in 2019, shows singer Kelly, 43, interviewing celebrities and engaging with the audience. The American Idol winner’s show recently celebrated its 1,000th episode and boasts 22 Daytime Emmys, including several wins for Outstanding Daytime Talk Series and Outstanding Daytime Talk Series Host. But speculation has spread in recent weeks that the singer is planning to quit her hosting duties once her contract at NBC expires in 2026.
Kelly’s representatives have commented on the potential changes, but NBC executives are reportedly compiling a list of potential successors, with Hoda emerging as a leading candidate due to her extensive experience and popularity.
An insider who spoke to Page Six last month, “Kelly’s number one priority is her children, and they always will be,” adding, “The show is grueling. It’s a whole lot of work, and I hear that Kelly would like to spend more time down South.” Kelly relocated her show from LA to NYC in 2023 after her divorce from her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock was finalised in June 2022.
She told People Magazine at the start of her divorce: “I was very depressed for the last three years — and maybe a little before that, if I’m being honest. I think I really needed the change.. “I needed it for me and my family as well. My kids are thriving here. We’re just doing so much better, and we needed a fresh start.”
On the show Kelly has hosted notable guests including actor Brian Tyree Henry, who opened up on his love of the Netflix show “With Love, Meghan” to a blunt response from the show host, who abruptly admitted she had not heard of Meghan’s Netflix show.
The Duchess of Sussex reshared the clip from the programme on her Instagram story, where Brian expressed his admiration for her and the “flower sprinkles” concept. Kelly quipped: “What is that?”
He explained to Kelly that he and fellow actor Elizabeth Olsen bonded over watching Meghan’s new lifestyle programme.
“The new Meghan Markle slash Meghan, Duchess of Sussex show where she’s also like Martha Stewart now,” the actor replied.
He also expressed his desire to appear on Meghan’s Netflix programme, telling Kelly: “We’re also trying to get on the show, so.”
Meghan’s response to Brian’s enthusiasm was warm and appreciative, as she shared on her Instagram story. “Love this so much! Special delivery coming in hot for you two gems! @briantyreehenry & Lizzie Olsen,” the Duchess wrote.