Kelly Clarkson Steps Back, Star-Studded Line-Up Takes Over Talk Show

NEW YORK — Following a brief hiatus, Kelly Clarkson will return to her talk show, but not before a series of guest hosts take the reins next week. Clarkson, the celebrated host of The Kelly Clarkson Show, has not disclosed the reason for her absence, but fans are rallying in support, wishing her well amid speculation of a vacation.

Beginning March 10, actress and model Kate Bosworth will host the first two episodes of the week. NBC anchor Willie Geist will step in for the Wednesday installment, while model and actress Molly Sims is slated to close out the week on Thursday and Friday with additional guest hosting duties.

This week’s guest list boasts notable names such as Patrick Schwarzenegger from The White Lotus, music legend Smokey Robinson, and other stars like Simone Ashley, Joshua Jackson, and Michael Fassbender. Furthermore, the winners of the latest season of The Traitors will also make an appearance.

On social media, fans have expressed their understanding of Clarkson’s need for time off, with many commenting in support of her break. One fan shared, “Have missed Kelly on the show recently, hope she is well and enjoying her well-deserved break,” while another stated, “Kelly is allowed to have or need time off y’all lol let her be.”

During a recent episode, actor Simu Liu humorously addressed the audience at the start of his hosting stint, saying, “I do have a confession to make. I am not…Kelly Clarkson.” He continued by sending best wishes to Clarkson, remarking that his appearance was last-minute as he prepared to promote his new film, Last Breath.

The Emmy-winning talk show has entered its sixth season, marking the second season since the show relocated from Los Angeles to New York City. A dedicated studio was constructed at NBC’s Rockefeller Center to accommodate the show’s new setting.

During her time away, Clarkson’s absence sparked questions among viewers. Comments flooded social media questioning the nature of her break, with one user asking, “What happened to Kelly, why is she not hosting?” This sentiment echoed throughout various platforms, demonstrating fans’ eagerness for her return.

Clarkson previously shared her thoughts on the evolution of her show in a recent interview, stating, “By season six, people kind of trust our show more…they feel safe there, and they’re willing to, like, you know, play a dumb game that’s just fun or they’re willing to talk about things that maybe they don’t normally talk about.” The show has continued to garner acclaim, winning several Daytime Emmys since its debut.