Kelly Clarkson could not hold back her emotions after Rita Wilson praised the impact of The Kelly Clarkson Show.
During the May 27 episode of the daytime talk show, Wilson took a moment to thank Clarkson as the series prepares to end later this year after seven seasons.
“I just want to say one thing before we go,” Wilson said, according to People. “I want to thank you for the years that you’ve been doing your show. I want to thank you for literally changing the game when it came to daytime television.”
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Wilson went on to praise Clarkson for bringing music into daytime TV in a way that felt personal and meaningful.
“It has made a big change in my life,” Wilson added, according to Good Housekeeping. “So thank you, Kelly, for sharing your gifts and for sharing your love of music and for all of your vulnerability and for bringing all of us here to also share our gifts. Thank you for that.”
Clarkson, who appeared visibly emotional, teared up as Wilson spoke. The two then embraced, and Clarkson tried to keep the mood light.
“I’m fine,” Clarkson responded, wiping away tears.
Rita Wilson Praises Kelly Clarkson’s Daytime TV Legacy
Wilson’s tribute struck a chord because The Kelly Clarkson Show has become known for blending celebrity interviews, everyday human-interest stories and live music.
The show premiered in 2019 and quickly became one of daytime TV’s standout success stories. Clarkson’s “Kellyoke” performances became a signature segment, in which the singer covered songs by a wide range of artists before sitting down with guests.
Wilson thanked Clarkson for making music a central part of daytime television and for creating a platform for other artists to share their gifts.
The moment also landed with fans, many of whom shared supportive messages.
Why ‘The Kelly Clarkson Show’ Is Ending
Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC
Clarkson announced in February that the current season of The Kelly Clarkson Show would be its last.
At the time, the singer and host said the decision was personal and connected to her role as a mother. Clarkson shares daughter River Rose and son Remington Alexander with her late ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock.
“I have been extremely fortunate to work with such an outstanding group of people at The Kelly Clarkson Show, both in Los Angeles and New York,” Clarkson wrote in her February statement, according to People.
She also said that after seven seasons, she needed to prioritize her children.
“Their lives have been turned upside down too many times, and I want to be a present mother to them,” Clarkson said.
Kelly Clarkson Is Not Leaving TV Completely
Although The Kelly Clarkson Show is ending, Clarkson is not stepping away from television entirely.
NBC confirmed that Clarkson will return as a coach for Season 30 of The Voice. The milestone season will also feature Adam Levine, Queen Latifah and Riley Green.
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