Staff on The Kelly Clarkson Show are reportedly relieved by rumors that Kelly Clarkson may leave the show when her NBC contract ends in 2026, as tensions behind the scenes continue to grow.
The 43-year-old singer and TV host raised concerns earlier this year after missing several shows in March due to undisclosed “personal reasons.” Since returning, insiders say her emotional and unpredictable behavior has created a stressful and unstable work environment.
Per the Daily Mail, sources say Clarkson is seriously considering walking away from her estimated $12.8 million contract with NBC. If she does, speculation is growing that former Today Show host Hoda Kotb, 60, could replace her.
This comes as Clarkson gears up for a crucial summer in her music career, with her ninth studio album expected and a limited Las Vegas residency scheduled from July to August.
A producer on The Kelly Clarkson Show told the Daily Mail that growing speculation about Clarkson’s future and mental state has left staff worried about the security of their jobs.
“Not feeling too stable,” the producer said. “She could bolt at any time. Where does that leave me?”
“Stressed” is an understatement. No one likes the uncertainty. This feels like it could collapse any minute.”
“Everyone loves Kelly,” the producer stated. “She’s a wonderful person. But maybe Hoda would be a better boss. I know she’s universally beloved and respected by her former coworkers. Maybe she would be good. She sure would be a lot more stable than what we’ve been going through.”
“If Kelly is unhappy, then she should move on. We would all understand. If Hoda wants to do it, it could be a win-win for everyone.”
Kelly Clarkson, 43, has hosted her daytime talk show since it debuted in 2019, featuring celebrity interviews and lively audience interactions. The show recently marked its 1,000th episode and has earned 22 Daytime Emmy Awards, including multiple wins for Outstanding Daytime Talk Series and Host.
However, questions about the future of the show, now in its sixth season, began surfacing after Clarkson’s unexplained absence from several episodes in March. Concerns were reignited earlier this month when, during a concert, she remarked that her television career had become a distraction from her music, raising further doubts about her long-term commitment to the show.
