A couple of weeks have gone by since co-host of CBS’s daytime panel show “The Talk,” Sharon Osbourne partook in a heated conversation on race earlier with co-host Sheryl Underwood. The two discussed Osbourne’s support of former “Good Morning, Britain” host Piers Morgan.
The conversation resulted in the program going on hiatus. The Hillshared a statement from CBS that Osbourne had decided to leave the show for upsetting everyone involved, including those watching at home.
“As part of our review, we concluded that Sharon’s behavior toward her co-hosts during the March 10 episode did not align with our values for a respectful workplace,” the statement said.
“At the same time, we acknowledge the Network and Studio teams, as well as the showrunners, are accountable for what happened during that broadcast as it was clear the co-hosts were not properly prepared by the staff for a complex and sensitive discussion involving race.”
The controversy stems from a segment that erupted after the co-hosts discussed Morgan’s departure from his show. Morgan faced criticism for not believing aspects of Meghan Markle’s interview with Oprah Winfrey, including having suicidal thoughts.
When the show went on hiatus, journalist Yashar Ali reported several incidents where former co-hosts accused Osbourne of making racist and homophobic comments to former co-hosts.
CBS revealed no further details as to when the show expects to resume or who will fill Osbourne’s role in the future. CNN adds that the entire staff went through “coordinating workshops, listening sessions and training about equity, inclusion and cultural awareness” during the program’s hiatus.
Eduardo Razo is the Assistant Content Editor for BNM, which includes writing daily news stories on the news media industry. He can be found on Twitter @eddierazo_ or you can reach him by email at eddie1991razo@gmail.com.
