The Talk ‘to replace Carrie Ann Inaba with NFL star Victor Cruz’ after Jerry O’Connell becomes first male host on show
THE Talk will "replace the departing Carrie Ann Inaba with NFL star Victor Cruz" after Jerry O'Connell becomes the first male host on the show.
Back in April, announced she would be taking a leave of absence to deal with her health.
A source exclusively told The Sun: "Carrie Ann is walking away from the show with her head held high.
"Another male will likely take her place - Victor Cruz is the clear favorite for the job."
Victor has appeared on as a guest-host in various episode, most recently in late July.
The insider explained: "Sharon kept the show in the headlines. When a was the only thing getting attention, it was a sign to move on and try something new."
The Sun has reached out to the show's reps for comment.
In March, CBS revealed in a statement that longtime host following mass backlash for her "racially insensitive" comments while defending
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CARRIE ANN'S BREAK
Carrie Ann, 53, previously told fans: "I have decided to take a leave of absence from @thetalkcbs to focus on my well being. We all know health is the most precious gift we have…
"And I need to take care of mine. I appreciate the love and support from all of you and from my family at The Talk.
"I hope to be back soon! Ready for action! I’m sending you all my love. And I’ll update you on my progress… talk soon."
DONE FOR GOOD?
However, according to , the judge is next season.
An insider told the outlet: "They haven’t announced it, but Carrie Ann is not returning, and they’ve been trying out comics and athletes to take her place."
The source added: "After the incident, they brought in a diversity and inclusion agency to help repair the situation, and Carrie Ann openly griped that she was being punished for things while she was out.
"She returned to a new environment, and she also didn’t like that the show is starting to tackle more serious issues."
JERRY'S NEW GIG
Actor following her shocking exit, as he joined the panel alongside , , and .
"It's really exciting. You ladies have been so welcoming to me..." Jerry, 47, said at the time.
The Sun exclusively reported from two sources that for the gig.
An insider said at the time: “Jerry’s salary is less than half of Sharon’s salary, but more than Sheryl. Amanda and Elaine are making mid six figures..."
The Talk would have all eyes on it following Sharon's on-air blowup with fellow panelist Sheryl.
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On the March 10 episode, , 68, addressed her decision to stand by her longtime friend Piers' criticism of , resulting in a , which also left the ex judge sobbing.
