Kelly Clarkson is back at the helm of her daytime talk show after nearly two weeks of intermittent absences. Here's what's known about her return and the star-studded guest lineup.
- Mar 20, 2025
AceShowbiz - Kelly Clarkson is back on screen, hosting her eponymous daytime talk show after a nearly two-week hiatus that left fans both worried and curious.
The 42-year-old singer and host reappeared on the March 18 episode, where she welcomed "Severance" star Adam Scott and viral musician Marc Rebillet. Clarkson's return follows a period of unexplained absences that kept her off the air starting from March 3.
Throughout her hiatus, a series of guest hosts stepped in to keep the show running smoothly. These included Marvel star Simu Liu, who had only minutes' notice before taking over on March 3.
"Kelly isn't able to make it today. We're sending her our very best," Liu told the audience, admitting he wasn't prepared for the role. Following Liu's hosting debut, others like comedian Roy Wood Jr., Wanda Sykes, Brooke Shields, Willie Geist, and Molly Sims also filled in.
Clarkson's March 5 return was brief as she took another leave shortly after, this time until March 13. On her recent return, Clarkson did not offer an explanation regarding her absence, leaving many viewers searching for answers.
Various theories circulated online ranging from health issues to "Ozempic retreat," and fans expressed their concerns on social media. "We respect Kelly Clarkson's privacy, but I am very concerned about her," one distressed viewer wrote on Instagram.
TMZ and Deadline later reported that Clarkson's absence was due to a personal matter that did not directly involve her, clarifying that she was "fine." Despite this reassurance, many fans hoped for some form of acknowledgment or explanation from Clarkson herself.
Toward the end of the week, Clarkson is expected to continue her hosting duties, bringing an exciting guest lineup that includes Tyler Perry, Alicia Vikander, and Mau y Ricky on Thursday, followed by Ellen Pompeo, David Blaine, and Crystle Stewart on Friday.
Clarkson's approach to her talk show has always been casual. "Ignorance is bliss. I'm just doing my thing. I love talking to people. I love singing. I love the audience being kind of a co-host with me," she told USA TODAY at the time.
Despite the recent disruptions, Clarkson appears ready to get back into her groove, and her audience eagerly anticipates what's next. After all, as one fan aptly noted, sometimes people need to take time off, and they don't owe an explanation for it.
