Mitchell Haddad/WBTV
The Jennifer Hudson Show‘s Spirit Tunnel won’t be shutting down any time soon.
The talk show has been renewed for a fifth season, producer Telepictures announced Thursday.
“I could not be more honored to continue this journey alongside a phenomenal group of brilliant producers, dedicated crew, and collaborative partners,” its Oscar-winning host said in a statement. “It is such a joy to connect with people in meaningful ways every day across this country and to share stories of heart and inspiration, all while bringing entertainment into people’s lives. None of this would be possible without our incredible audience. They are the heartbeat of the show, and I am so excited to take this to new heights in Season 5!”
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Lauren Blincoe, the senior vice president for current programming for the company, said the move is “a meaningful reminder that positivity, joy, and stories that celebrate the best in people continue to resonate deeply with viewers.”
She complimented the EGOT winner’s “talent, heart, and generosity of spirit,” which she said has driven the success of the talker that debuted in 2022. The “exceptional work and dedication of our executive producers, staff and crew, station partners, and loyal viewers.” also received a shout-out.
News of The Jennifer Hudson Show’s return comes within weeks of announcements that two other talk shows with acclaimed hosts will end after their current seasons.
Hudson’s fellow American Idol alum Kelly Clarkson revealed on Feb. 2 that she had made the decision to end The Kelly Clarkson Show after seven seasons. She will continue to host through the fall.
The “Since U Been Gone” singer thanked her colleagues and fans of the series, which premiered in 2019.
“There have been so many amazing moments and shows over these seven seasons,” Clarkson said. “I am forever grateful and honored to have worked alongside the greatest band and crew you could hope for, all the talent and inspiring people who have shared their time and lives with us, all the fans who have supported our show and to NBC for always being such a supportive and incredible partner.”
Leaving “was not an easy decision,” she said, noting that it would give her time “to prioritize my kids, which feels necessary and right for this next chapter of our lives.”
Talk WW Productions, Inc; Ralph Bavaro/NBCUniversal
Hours later came the announcement that Sherri Shepherd’s talk show had been canceled after four seasons.
Shepherd spoke to the Sherri audience on Feb. 9, after having briefly stepped away during a bout with COVID-19. Like Clarkson, she will continue to host through the fall.
“I want to thank you for laughing and crying with us,” Shepard said. “Thank you for supporting my unhealthy obsession with Lenny Kravitz. But I’ve got to tell you, when I first started, this show was built on one thing, and what I wanted it built on was joy. The intention of this show, always, was my prayer for you to leave happier than when you came. And you know this, I talked about this. It has been my dream to have a talk show, and I’m so grateful I had the chance to do it for four seasons.”
All three shows air weekdays. Check local listings.
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