Kelly Clarkson breaks silence on demanding talk show post absence: Report

Kelly Clarkson is finally opening up about the pressure of her daytime talk show job after a mysterious absence earlier this year left fans and insiders speculating about her future on television.

During her first full-length concert in nearly six months at the Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena in Atlantic City on Friday, the 43-year-old pop star and TV host addressed the crowd with rare candor, admitting that her demanding talk show schedule has significantly affected her music career.

Page Six reported, she said onstage, “We haven’t done a show in a while, y’all, 'cause I have a talk show. It’s like a whole other job.”

Moreover, Clarkson, who shares two children, daughter River and son Remy with ex-husband Brandon Blackstock, also noted the challenges of balancing her professional life with single motherhood.

In regards to this, she added, “I’m a single mom. That keeps me pretty busy too.” 

Her comments came just weeks after the outlet that Clarkson is considering leaving The Kelly Clarkson Show when her contract expires next year, citing the grueling workload and a desire to spend more time down South. 

Moreover, a source close to the star told the publication, “Kelly’s number one priority is her children, and they always will be."

Earlier this year, Clarkson was noticeably absent from her show for several weeks without any official explanation, prompting internal chatter that NBC might be preparing to replace her. 

According to Daily Mail, Today show alum Hoda Kotb is among the potential candidates being considered to step into Clarkson’s coveted daytime slot.

In this regard, a network source revealed, “She has a lot going on and the timing may be right for the next chapter,” while noting that Clarkson’s decision may depend on how well her upcoming music releases perform.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding her television future, Clarkson said she was “so happy” to return to the stage, even if only briefly, as per the outlet's claims.