Amidst Accusations of Toxic Work Environment, Kelly Clarkson Show Prepares for Major Move
The Kelly Clarkson Show, the popular NBC daytime series, has been hit with accusations of fostering a toxic work environment, according to a recent Rolling Stone exposé. The report, based on interviews with one current and ten former staff members, alleges that employees experienced overwork, underpayment, and a significant toll on their mental health.
Despite these allegations, show host Kelly Clarkson has been described as "fantastic" by the staff. One former employee stated, "Kelly has no clue how unhappy her staff is," and another expressed belief that Clarkson would be "pretty aghast" to learn about the staff's grievances.
Some employees shared stark descriptions of their experiences, with one stating that their stint with the show was "by far the worst experience I've ever had in my entire life." This sentiment was echoed by another staffer who claimed, "This job deteriorated my mental health."
The Rolling Stone report, penned by Krystie Lee Yandoli, who previously unveiled a similar controversy at The Ellen DeGeneres Show, came amidst news that The Kelly Clarkson Show is relocating its production to New York City. The move is expected to take place this fall, with filming to occur at NBC Studios in Manhattan's 30 Rockefeller Center.
The Kelly Clarkson Show, which debuted on September 9, 2019, has been renewed through 2025 and is currently in its fourth season. The program will have aired 720 episodes by the end of this season. It gained early success, officially taking over The Ellen DeGeneres Show's time slot ahead of season 4.
Known for its beloved "Kellyoke" segments, the show features Clarkson performing fan-requested covers of popular songs. In 2022, she released the six-track Kellyoke EP, with renditions of songs by several famous artists.
Despite the challenges, the series has accrued an impressive 13 Daytime Emmys, including three for Clarkson for Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host (2020 to 2022) and two for Outstanding Talk Show Entertainment (2021 to 2022). The program is also nominated for 11 Daytime Emmys this year.
In response to the allegations, an NBCU spokesperson assured their commitment to a "safe and respectful work environment," stating that all reported issues are promptly reviewed, investigated, and acted upon as needed. Clarkson has yet to comment on the matter.