Kelly Clarkson is set to resume filming her daytime talk show on Thursday, March 13, following an unexplained absence that left fans wondering about her whereabouts.
During the past two weeks, several celebrities have stepped in as guest hosts on The Kelly Clarkson Show.
While neither Clarkson nor the show has provided an official explanation, reports surfaced on Wednesday suggesting that the American Idol winner was fine but dealing with a personal matter.
According to Entertainment Tonight, a source revealed that her absence was due to a “sudden family emergency,” causing her to miss a total of 10 tapings.
Both Entertainment Tonight and TMZ report that Clarkson is expected to return to film new episodes on Thursday, though it’s unclear whether those episodes will air next week or at a later date. The show typically announces its weekly schedule just a few days in advance.
Speculation about Clarkson’s absence began on March 3 when actor Simu Liu appeared to take on hosting duties at the last minute.
“I am not Kelly Clarkson. I know this may shock many of you,” Liu joked at the start of the show. “But Kelly actually isn’t able to make it today, and we’re sending her our very best.”
He then revealed just how unexpected his role was, saying, “Here’s the thing—I did not know that I was doing this until about five minutes ago when I arrived here to promote my new movie, Last Breath, which is in theaters right now.”
According to Entertainment Tonight, guests were not informed in advance of Clarkson’s absence due to privacy reasons. Instead, they were given the option to step in as guest hosts upon arriving at the studio.
While Clarkson hosted the episodes that aired on Tuesday and Wednesday that week, comedian Roy Wood Jr. took over on Thursday, followed by Wanda Sykes on Friday.
The show’s social media schedule revealed that guest hosts would continue throughout the week. Brooke Shields led Monday and Tuesday’s episodes, Willie Geist hosted on Wednesday, and Molly Sims was set to close out the week on Thursday and Friday.
If this schedule remains accurate, Clarkson will have missed a total of eight episodes over two weeks. However, if reports stating she missed 10 tapings are correct, there may be two additional episodes without her airing next week.
Fan reactions to the schedule update ranged from concern to calls for respecting Clarkson’s privacy. Comments included, “Is Kelly okay???,” “I respect Kelly Clarkson’s privacy, but I am very concerned about her,” and “Have missed Kelly on the show recently, hope she is well and enjoying her well-deserved break.”
Currently in its sixth season, The Kelly Clarkson Show has already been renewed for a seventh. Meanwhile, Clarkson is also set to headline a Las Vegas residency at Caesars Palace from July 4 to August 16.