Allegations of a toxic work environment behind the scenes of The Kelly Clarkson Show have surfaced, with former staff members sharing their distressing experiences. These claims come just as the show is set to move its production from Los Angeles to New York City. An exposé published on May 12 by Rolling Stone revealed interviews with several former employees who have raised serious concerns about the working conditions on the popular daytime talk show.
Claims of Overwork, Low Pay, and Emotional Strain
According to the report, multiple staffers, some with extensive experience in the entertainment industry, reported being overworked and underpaid. One anonymous employee revealed that the work environment had taken a toll on their mental health, recalling a moment when they had to go to the roof of the stage to cry, asking themselves, “What am I doing? Why am I putting myself through this?”
In addition to these emotional struggles, former staff members claimed they had to take on side jobs—babysitting, dog walking, and even working for Uber Eats—in order to make ends meet, highlighting the financial strain of working on the show.
Lack of Support and Unheard Complaints
Another theme that emerged from the interviews was the sense of disconnect between staff and management. Despite voicing concerns to the show’s human resources department, many staffers said that their complaints were ignored, leaving them feeling unsupported.
One former staffer shared how this emotional detachment contributed to a sense of a “transactional” work environment, with little recognition for their hard work. “It felt like it wasn’t about us,” the employee said, underlining the lack of compassion in the workplace.
Allegations Against Executive Producer Alex Duda
The report also focuses on The Kelly Clarkson Show‘s executive producer, Alex Duda, who has faced harsh criticism from several former employees. One staff member described Duda as a “monster,” and others alleged that she had cursed at them on stage. These accusations suggest a pattern of mistreatment, with some claiming Duda’s behavior mirrored past reports of toxicity at other shows she’s been involved with.
Neither Kelly Clarkson, 41, nor Alex Duda have publicly commented on the allegations. Clarkson, who has hosted the show since 2019, has been a favorite among fans, but the alleged workplace culture has cast a shadow over her program’s success.
NBCU’s Response
NBCUniversal, the network behind the show, responded to the allegations by issuing a statement that emphasized its commitment to a “safe and respectful work environment.” The statement assured the public that the company takes any reported issues seriously, and that complaints are promptly reviewed and acted upon.
“When issues are reported, they are promptly investigated and addressed appropriately,” the statement read. “The Kelly Clarkson Show is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, creative workplace for all staff members.”
Relocation to New York City
In addition to these allegations, The Kelly Clarkson Show is set to move its production from Los Angeles to New York City for the next season. The show will film inside the iconic Rockefeller Center, a change that marks a fresh chapter for the program. However, sources close to Clarkson have indicated that the move is not likely to impact the internal issues raised by staff members.
A source recently shared that the transition to New York will not affect Clarkson’s relationship with her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock. Despite their divorce in 2022, Clarkson and Blackstock continue to co-parent their children, River Rose and Remington, without any major issues.
Will the Show Address the Allegations?
As The Kelly Clarkson Show heads into this new phase of production, it remains to be seen whether the show’s leadership will address the serious concerns raised by staff members. The future of the show could depend on whether the network takes the necessary steps to improve the work environment and address the toxic culture described by former employees. The public’s response will likely be influenced by the show’s ability to turn things around and create a more positive and supportive environment for its staff moving forward.