PHOTOSJulie Chen Leaving 'The Talk' After Sexual Misconduct Allegations Against Husband Les Moonves
Sep. 18 2018, Published 7:00 p.m. ET
TV host Julie Chen is leaving her position on The Talk effectively immediately, according to CNN. This news comes following sexual misconduct allegations against her husband, CBS CEO Les Moonves, who was pressured to leave the company earlier this month. Read on for more details.
Julie made the big announcement in a pre-taped message on Tuesday's episode of The Talk, while fighting back tears.
“I have been at The Talk since the day it started nine years ago, and the cast, crew and staff have become family to me over the years,” Julie, 48, said in the video. “But right now, I need to spend more time at home with my husband and our young son. So I’ve decided to leave The Talk. I want to thank everyone at the show for our wonderful years together. I will always, always cherish the memories we shared. Most important, I want to thank you, the viewers, for allowing me into your home every day. It was a privilege that I will forever be grateful for. To everyone behind the scenes … I send you my love. I will miss you all very, very much.”
Her husband was pressured to leave his role as CEO of CBS Corporation after he was accused by six women of sexual misconduct in a report published by The New Yorker in July.
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In addition to The Talk, Julie also hosts Big Brother, a role that she'll maintain, according to the source. "She has decided that her main focus needs to be clearing her husband's name from accusations made 25-30 years ago and tending to her son," the insider told CNN.
Following the sexual misconduct allegations, Julie returned to Big Brother with a message of support for Les. At the end of the show on Thursday, September 13, the host looked directly into the camera and said, “I’m Julie Chen Moonves. Goodnight.” That was the first time she’s ever used that last name on-air.
What do you think about Julie quitting The Talk after her husband was pressured to leave the company following sexual misconduct allegations? Let us know in the comments.
