Carrie Ann Inaba Quits ‘The Talk’ After Leave of Absence and 3 Seasons on CBS Show
Carrie Ann Inaba has decided to part ways with The Talk after three seasons on the CBS show. The Dancing with the Stars judge confirmed she was leaving the daytime program after she took a leave of absence earlier this year. Inaba’s leave came after turmoil on the set of the show following a heated discussion about race between Sheryl Underwood and Sharon Osbourne. The Talk took a break and returned without Osbourne on the show.
Carrie Ann Inaba’s official statement about her exit from ‘The Talk’
Following reports that Inaba was not returning for The Talk this fall, the network officially confirmed her departure from the show. Inaba, who replaced Julie Chen in January 2019, had been on the show for three seasons and in a statement said she was grateful for the opportunity to have been part of the cast.
“I enjoyed my time at The Talk as co-host and moderator and I am grateful for the opportunity I had to grow with the entire Talk family as well as truly connect with viewers on such a personal level,” Inaba said in a statement to Deadline. “I will miss The Talk, but I am excited for the next chapter both for myself and for the show.”’
Executive producers, Heather Gray and Kristin Matthews, also had some departing words for Inaba who said that Inaba’s “authenticity and openness created a special connection and relationship” with the audience.
“We will always be grateful for her contributions here at The Talk over the last 3 seasons,” the joint statement continued. “Her warmth, wisdom and vulnerability are just a few of her many admirable traits that will be missed. We wish her much success and good health going forward.”
Carrie Ann Inaba shares departing message on Instagram
After the network’s official statement, Inaba also took to Instagram to share the news with all of her fans. In a series of video clips, the former The Talk co-host shared a message of gratitude.
“It has been a wonderful experience and an honor to have been the moderator at The Talk, following in the footsteps of two women I very much respect. @juliechenmoonves and @thesaragilbert. Dreams do come true, if you work hard for them,” Inaba posted on the social platform.
Inaba shared that she made “beautiful and lifelong friendships” during her tenure on The Talk. She also wished the show all the success as they move forward into the new season.
“My heart is full and content. I’m truly grateful for all that was, all that is (life is in perfection), and all that will be,” Inaba added.
Amanda Kloots, who will remain a part of The Talk, replied to the post adding, “We will miss you every day Carrie Ann! Thank you for being such a bright light always. I loved working with you and learning from you!!!!!”
Osbourne was also one of Inaba’s former co-hosts that replied to her Instagram post.
“Wishing you all the success and a beautiful new journey! Luvs ya,” she wrote.
Why did Carrie Ann Inaba take a leave from ‘The Talk?’
When The Talk returned from hiatus after the controversy, co-host Underwood explained that Inaba had taken a leave from the show “to focus on her well-being.” After the CBS show aired, Inaba took to social media to talk directly with her fans.
“I have decided to take a leave of absence from The Talk to focus on my well-being,” Inaba said. “I know you guys understand health is the most important thing.”
In a second video posted on Instagram, she added, “I appreciate your support. I appreciate the love and support from The Talk family, and I hope to be back soon. Take care and I’ll keep you updated.”
The Talk continues on CBS with Kloots, Underwood, Elaine Welteroth, and Jerry O’Connell. There’s no word about who will replace Inaba on the show just yet.
