In a heartfelt revelation on NBC's Today show, Kelly Clarkson opened up about her decision to conclude The Kelly Clarkson Show after seven successful seasons, citing the evolving needs of her family as the primary driver. The 43-year-old singer and host, speaking on the Friday, February 20 episode alongside anchor Carson Daly, described the choice as both challenging and necessary. "I think everybody probably gets the timing," Clarkson said. "Our family life, the dynamic changed a bit, and it has changed for a minute now, so I think … it’s one of those things when you kinda start seeing life with how it is precious, too."
Clarkson first announced the end of her daytime talk show earlier this month, emphasizing that the move allows her to focus on her two children, River Rose, 11, and Remington, 9, whom she shares with her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock. Blackstock, who was 48 at the time of his passing, died in 2025 following a battle with cancer; he is also survived by two older children from a previous marriage. The announcement comes amid Clarkson's ongoing efforts to rebuild her life after significant personal losses, including the relocation of her family to the East Coast.
"I know everybody thinks, ‘Oh, she’s quitting,’ but I still have other jobs," Clarkson told Daly, pushing back against any notion of full retirement. "I’m still doing stuff. There’s just too much on the plate. So I was like, you know what, it’s time to kinda pull back." She highlighted the emotional weight of the decision, particularly regarding her team. "It’s amazing, that’s what was really hard [because] the crew’s been incredible. … That was a really hard thing for me, but an easy decision there as a momma."
The Kelly Clarkson Show debuted on NBC in September 2019, originating from Los Angeles where Clarkson filmed episodes amid her rising profile as a multifaceted entertainer. The program quickly gained acclaim for its blend of music, celebrity interviews, and heartfelt segments, earning multiple Daytime Emmy Awards during its run. Production shifted to New York City in the fall of 2023, aligning with Clarkson's family move to the East Coast—a decision she described as essential for a fresh start.
Reflecting on the relocation in a May 2023 TalkShopLive stream, Clarkson recounted an emotional conversation with her crew earlier that year. "I talked to my crew back in January through tears because I have built such an amazing group of people," she said. "Obviously, we’ve been very successful and I love everybody I work with and we have such great relationships. I was like, ‘Guys I need you to know what’s happening. It’s either I’m not going to be able to continue with the show or I got to go the East Coast.’"
Clarkson explained that her family's base in North Carolina necessitated the change, compounded by personal challenges in Los Angeles. "My family is [on the] East Coast. They’re North Carolina-based. It was one of those things where I just had to," she continued. "Also, there were a lot of personal things going on, too. I feel like our family — me and my kids — really needed a fresh start and I just could not get it here [in Los Angeles]. There was just hurdle after hurdle with things." This move, which Clarkson has said was "100 percent" her idea, also brought the show to a new audience in the Northeast.
As the seventh and final season unfolds, Clarkson has expressed deep appreciation for the collaborative spirit that defined the series. In a statement provided to Us Weekly, she elaborated on the bonds formed over the years.
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. There have been so many amazing moments and shows over these seven seasons. I am forever grateful and honored to have worked alongside the greatest band and crew you could hope for, all the talent and inspiring people who have shared their time and lives with us, all the fans who have supported our show and to NBC for always being such a supportive and incredible partner.
The statement underscored the difficulty of the choice, even as Clarkson affirmed its rightness for her family's next chapter. "Because of all of that, this was not an easy decision, but this season will be my last hosting The Kelly Clarkson Show," she wrote. "Stepping away from the daily schedule will allow me to prioritize my kids, which feels necessary and right for this next chapter of our lives."
NBC has not publicly commented on the show's conclusion beyond supporting Clarkson's statement, but industry observers note that the series has been a staple of daytime television, consistently ranking high in ratings. The program's success is attributed to Clarkson's authentic hosting style, drawing from her background as a Grammy-winning artist who rose to fame after winning the first season of American Idol in 2002.
Clarkson's departure from the daily grind does not signal a complete withdrawal from the spotlight. She assured fans that her career will continue in other forms. "This isn’t goodbye," she added in her statement, hinting at future endeavors. "You never know where I might show up next. But for now, I want to thank y’all so much for allowing our show to be a part of your lives, and for believing in us and hanging with us for seven incredible years." Specifically, Clarkson plans to keep making music, performing live shows, and making occasional appearances on The Voice, where she has served as a coach in multiple seasons.
The timing of the announcement aligns with broader reflections on work-life balance in the entertainment industry, especially for parents navigating high-profile careers. Clarkson, who has been open about her divorce from Blackstock finalized in 2022, has increasingly shared how motherhood shapes her priorities. Her move to New York not only facilitated the show's continuation but also placed her closer to supportive family networks in North Carolina, a factor she credits with aiding her emotional recovery.
Behind-the-scenes, the production teams in both Los Angeles and New York have been praised for their adaptability. Clarkson’s emotional farewell to the LA crew in early 2023 highlighted the familial atmosphere that permeated the set, contributing to the show's warm reception. Fans and colleagues alike have responded with an outpouring of support on social media, celebrating the seven seasons while wishing Clarkson well in her personal journey.
Looking ahead, Clarkson's exit leaves a void in daytime TV, but her influence endures through syndication reruns and her enduring music catalog. As she steps back to focus on River and Remington, the singer-host embodies a narrative of resilience, having transformed personal hardships into professional triumphs. Her story resonates with many working parents, illustrating the delicate balance between career demands and family commitments.
While details on potential replacements for the time slot remain undisclosed by NBC, Clarkson's legacy with The Kelly Clarkson Show is secure, marked by innovation and genuine connection. As she embarks on this new phase, the entertainment world watches eagerly for her next chapter, whether on stage, in the studio, or perhaps in unexpected guest spots that keep her vibrant presence alive.