Kelly Clarkson has finally responded to the shocking “toxic work environment” allegations involving her eponymous talk show.
“In my 20 years in the entertainment industry, I’ve always led with my heart and what I believed to be right,” she wrote in a post shared to Instagram Friday.
“I love my team at ‘The Kelly Clarkson Show,’ and to find out that anyone is feeling unheard and or disrespected on this show is unacceptable.”
Clarkson continued on, promising that she has “always been, and will continue to be” committed to creating “a safe and healthy environment” behind the scenes.
“As we prepare for a move to the East Coast, I am more committed than ever to ensuring that not only [for] our team that is moving, but also [that] our new team in NY is comprised of the best and kindest in the business.”
Clarkson noted that part of that will include “leadership training for all of the senior staff,” including herself.
“There is always room to grow and ensure we are all being/becoming the best version of ourselves in any business, especially when it comes to leadership, to ensure that any notion of toxicity is eradicated,” the “American Idol” alum added.
Clarkson was addressing a Rolling Stone bombshell exposé in which 11 current and former staffers at her chat fest complained of being “bullied and intimidated,” “overworked” and “traumatized” by the show’s “monster” producers.
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However, they all stressed that they doubted Clarkson, 41, knew of the alleged mistreatment, as she has been shielded from it.
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“NBC is protecting the show because it’s their new money maker, but Kelly has no clue how unhappy her staff is,” one ex-employee claimed to the magazine.
Another called her “fantastic” and described her as someone who “never treats anyone with anything but dignity and is incredibly appreciative.”
The “Because of You” singer was criticized on social media for not immediately addressing the allegations, instead choosing to promote her upcoming single.
“you’re my favorite kind of high 🤍 new song from my album #chemistry comes out on 5.19! pre-save now. link in bio,” the singer captioned the track’s cover art featuring a black-and-white photo of her.
“Uhhhhh. Are you going to address what’s happening with your show? The toxic environment with the producers? The potential WGA violations involving producers writing your episodes? This is extremely concerning, honestly,” one person asked in the comments section.
“PLEASE ADDRESS THE TOXIC WORKING ENVIRONMENT AT YOUR TALK SHOW BEFORE YOU BECOME THE NEXT ELLEN,” another critic begged, referring to Ellen DeGeneres, whose talk show ended last May, following disturbingly similar workplace claims.
