Following the conclusion of CBS’ investigation into her behavior and the circumstances that occurred during the Wednesday, March 10 broadcast of “The Talk,” the network announced this evening that Sharon Osbourne will be leaving the daytime talk show. Osbourne, whose exit leaves the show without an original co-host for the first time since it launched in October 2010, reportedly made the decision to leave on her own.
CBS
“The events of the March 10 broadcast were upsetting to everyone involved, including the audience watching at home,” said CBS in a statement. “As part of our review, we concluded that Sharon’s behavior toward her co-hosts during the March 10 episode did not align with our values for a respectful workplace. We also did not find any evidence that CBS executives orchestrated the discussion or blindsided any of the hosts.”
“At the same time, we acknowledge the Network and Studio teams, as well as the showrunners, are accountable for what happened during that broadcast as it was clear the co-hosts were not properly prepared by the staff for a complex and sensitive discussion involving race.
“During this week’s hiatus, we are coordinating workshops, listening sessions and training about equity, inclusion and cultural awareness for the hosts, producers and crew. Going forward, we are identifying plans to enhance the producing staff and producing procedures to better serve the hosts, the production and, ultimately, our viewers.”
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In the days following CBS’ airing of a highly rated Oprah Winfrey television special dedicated to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Osbourne became embroiled in controversy after she defended her friend and former “America’s Got Talent” co-judge Piers Morgan over criticism he’s received from comments he made about Markle’s interview with Winfrey. He was accused of being a racist and subsequently quit the British morning show “Good Morning Britain.” In defending him on “The Talk,” Osbourne got into a heated exchange with co-host Sheryl Underwood over social media claims that Osbourne herself was racist for her support of Morgan.
Osbourne stated in a recent “Entertainment Tonight” interview that she expected to be fired as she became the “sacrificial lamb” and that she was “set up” by show producers, which CBS’ now concluded investigation disputes.
“The Talk” returns with original episodes beginning Monday, April 12 following the pre-scheduled hiatus during the week of April 5.