“The events of the March 10 broadcast were disturbing for everyone involved, including the audience watching at home. As part of our review, we concluded that Sharon’s behavior towards his co-hosts during the March 10 episode it did not align with our values for a respectful workplace, “said CBS in a statement released to CNN. “We also found no evidence that CBS executives orchestrated the discussion or surprised any of the hosts.”
CNN sought an Osbourne representative for comment.
Morgan quit his job on ITV’s “Good Morning Britain” after allegations that the negative comments he made after Prince Harry and Meghan’s interview with media mogul Oprah Winfrey were rooted in racism.
Osbourne demanded that Underwood provide examples of when Morgan had been a racist and was visibly upset during the exchange.
Osbourne later tweeted an apology, saying that she “panicked”, “felt surprised” and “became defensive” during her conversation with Underwood.
After the episode, CBS announced that an internal review would take place and the show went on a temporary production hiatus.
Shortly thereafter, in a story written by journalist Yashar Ali, former “Talk” host Leah Remini, who officially spoke in the article, and a number of unidentified sources, accused Osbourne of using racist and homophobic language in the past when speaking about your colleagues.
CNN did not independently verify the allegations, but a spokesman for Remini confirmed the veracity of his statements, as reported by Ali to CNN and declined to make any further comments.
Osbourne spokesman Howard Bragman contested the allegations
“The only thing worse than a dissatisfied former employee is a dissatisfied former talk show host,” he said in a statement to CNN. “For 11 years, Sharon has been kind, collegial and friendly to his hosts, as evidenced by giving them parties, inviting them to his home in the UK and other kindly gestures to name. Sharon is disappointed, but unperturbed and hardly surprise with the lies, the reformulation of history and the bitterness that comes out at this moment. “
“I’m not a racist and if you can’t attack your friend who happens to be black, it makes me racist because I said certain things to my friend, but did I say it on camera?” Osbourne said. “I will continue to apologize to Sheryl, even if I decide not to return, I will still continue to apologize to Sheryl.”
Osbourne was the only remaining member of the original cast of “The Talk”, which debuted in 2010.
In its statement Friday, CBS also said: “During this week’s hiatus, we are coordinating workshops, listening sessions and training on equity, inclusion and cultural awareness for the hosts, producers and staff. Going forward, we are identifying plans to improve the production team and production procedures to better serve the hosts, the production and, ultimately, our viewers. “