Sources Share Real Reason Kelly Clarkson Quit 'Daily Grind' Talk Show

Kelly Clarkson recently announced her daytime talk show, "The Kelly Clarkson Show," was coming to an end. In a post on Instagram, the "American Idol" winner admitted that walking away from her series was a difficult but necessary decision.

In a new interview, a source close to the "Miss Independent" singer revealed that the Grammy winner has also decided to leave her talk show because of her children and her desire to lead a slower-paced life.

Kelly Clarkson has faced many challenges over the last several years, including divorcing her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, and dealing with his unexpected death in August 2025.

Speaking with PEOPLE, a source close to Clarkson and the show's production revealed that the mother of two decided it was time to say goodbye to her talk show for several reasons, the main one being the significant time commitment. The source also shared that Clarkson's desire to slow down and enjoy life with her children played a role.

After years of an intense daily schedule, she’s excited to move at a different pace and have more flexibility to spend time with her kids without the structure of a daily show," the insider said. "This change gives her the space to be more present at home while still doing the creative work she loves."

"The Kelly Clarkson Show" has been on the air since 2019. During that time, the 43-year-old released two albums, "When Christmas Comes Around" and "Chemistry."

While it's unclear whether filming her talk show pulled her away from the studio, the insider insisted that Clarkson would still be performing and doing what makes her happiest now that she's got more time on her hands.

"Kelly still wants to make music and perform, and she’s open to popping up on projects she enjoys, but nothing that requires an ongoing daily grind. For her, this next phase is about balance," they shared.

In a statement shared on Instagram, Clarkson opened up about the end of her talk show. The A-lister explained how "extremely fortunate" she was to be the face of her production and to work with many talented people on the set.

"There have been so many amazing moments and shows over these seven seasons," she said, adding that she feels "honored" to have also worked alongside her band and crew.

"... 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," she finished.

Clarkson added that leaving her talk show behind will allow her to focus on caring for her two children amid life's unexpected changes. "This was not an easy decision, but this season will be my last hosting ‘The Kelly Clarkson Show,'" the statement read. "Stepping away from the daily schedule will allow me to prioritize my kids, which feels necessary and right for this next chapter of our lives."

According to Entertainment Tonight, Clarkson filed for divorce from her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, in June 2020 after nearly seven years of marriage.

Their divorce was finalized in March 2022 after a contentious legal battle, which saw Clarkson granted primary custody over their children, several of the ex-couple's Montana properties, and vehicles.

In August 2025, it was reported that Blackstock died from cancer at 48. A representative for the talent manager and producer said Blackstock died "peacefully and was surrounded by family," and thanked the public for their support and prayers.

Social media users reacted to the news of Clarkson's talk show concluding, including "Scandal" star Kerry Washington, who wrote, "You're amazing Kelly! Sending you so much love and gratitude."

"Real Housewives of Potomac" star Candiace Dillard Bassett shared a similar message and posted several red heart emojis.

Alex Andergold joked about the show's ending and questioned who would release covers of popular songs. "okay bye who is going to release daily covers that blow every other version of the song out of the water????"