Once America's beloved singing sensation, Kelly Clarkson now stands accused of overseeing a toxic work environment, facing the ire of critics and fans alike. Amidst claims of backstage bullying and intimidation, the 41-year-old talk show host and former 'American Idol' has promised to attend “leadership training” alongside her executives, in an attempt to mend her tarnished image.
When she chose to announce a new single release while seemingly brushing aside the shocking allegations about her show’s hostile environment, comparisons to Ellen DeGeneres, the former talk show host with her own toxic workplace scandal, were inevitable. Accusations of Clarkson's indifference to the plight of her staff and a lack of awareness have only added fuel to the fire.
A source close to the show discloses that employees have been "consistently undermined, disgraced, and shamed.” The emotional toll has allegedly led some staff members to step outside and break down in tears. One former staff member revealed that their time on the show was "undoubtedly the most distressing experience in my professional life. When I say I was traumatized — I truly mean it."
According to insiders, Clarkson is now anxious about the possible repercussions of these allegations. They suggest that she fears her talk show, or even her entire career, could be threatened, drawing parallels to Ellen DeGeneres's downfall following a similar toxic workplace scandal, which led to her show's conclusion in May 2022 after a 19-season run.
Despite the backlash, Clarkson continues to assert her commitment to fostering a "safe and healthy environment" backstage. However, her critics argue she appears more invested in promoting her music than addressing staff concerns, leading to a flurry of critical social media commentary.
An inside source reports that Clarkson has expressed regret, admitting she "should've known better," and plans to make amends when the show relocates to New York City. Yet, others worry that it might be too late to make amends and salvage her reputation.
Blackstocks Take Silent Pleasure in Kelly Clarkson's Workplace Controversy
As charges of backstage bullying and intimidation rattle the set of Kelly Clarkson's Emmy-winning talk show, Brandon Blackstock, her former husband, and his father, Narvel, appear to be having the last laugh, insiders suggest.
Kelly Clarkson, best known for her power-ballads, divorced Brandon Blackstock in 2020, which led to the dismissal of 66-year-old Narvel and 46-year-old Brandon from their managerial duties that spanned over 13 years. Now, as the 41-year-old vocalist confronts severe criticism, the Blackstocks are quietly relishing the turn of events.
The accusations shaking the foundation of "The Kelly Clarkson Show" involve eleven past and present employees who allege extreme overworking, underpayment, and ill-treatment by executive producer Alex Duda and other high-ranking staff. While Kelly herself has not been directly implicated, a previous staff member has labeled the experience as "traumatic."
A source close to the matter comments, “The way Narvel and Brandon see it, Kelly’s name is on the show so the buck stops with her." While Brandon maintains a public silence on the issue, insiders say that there is a private sense of satisfaction. "They believe if they were still managing Kelly’s career, they could have navigated the ship better. In their opinion, she's missing the invaluable advice and guidance they gave her for years."
Complicating matters further, Kelly and the Blackstocks are entangled in a legal dispute over millions of dollars. The Blackstocks claim that Kelly owes them unpaid management fees. On the contrary, Kelly argues for a refund on past payments, citing their lack of a requisite business license for representation.
A source reveals, “When Kelly first signed with them, her career was on a downward spiral, and she seemed destined to be another forgotten American Idol star." The source adds that under Narvel and Brandon's management, not only was her singing career rejuvenated, but they also secured her roles as a coach on 'The Voice' and as a host of her talk show. "And she doesn’t show one lick of gratitude,” the source concludes.