EXCLUSIVE: With the controversy started by the episode last Wednesday of the The conversation showing no signs of abating, the show unplanned hiatus is getting longer. I hear The conversation the team this evening has been informed that the show will remain dark at least until next week. No return date has been set.
The conversation was originally put on a hiatus last Sunday for two days. The interval was then extended and The conversation was scheduled to return with live shows next Tuesday, March 22.
A week ago, CBS launched an investigation into the heated discussion of race at the top of the March 10 episode related to Piers Morgan and his statements about Meghan Markle, which included Sharon Osbourne’s incisive comments to co-host Sheryl Underwood.
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Since then, there have been shocking new allegations against Osbourne that she had used racial slurs against former co-host / executive producer Julie Chen. Old one The conversation co-host Holly Robinson Peete also said that Osborne called her “too much ghetto” to be on the show.
Osbourne denied the allegations and went on the offensive, publicly accusing CBS executives of being behind Wednesday’s segment, which she calls “a setup”.
Osbourne had a blast on March 10, when Underwood and co-host Elaine Welteroth questioned her about her support for her friend Morgan after her attacks on Markle following her and Prince Harry’s Oprah interview.
“While you’re next to your friend, it looks like you’re giving validation or a safe haven to something he said is racist,” said Underwood. Among his most incendiary remarks, Morgan said he did not believe Markle’s suicidal thoughts.
“I feel like I’m about to be put in the electric chair because I have a friend that many people think is racist, which makes me a racist,” said Osbourne. She apologized for the exchange the next day on Twitter.
“CBS is committed to a diverse, inclusive and respectful work environment in all of our productions,” said CBS last Friday. “We are also very attentive to the important concerns expressed and the discussions that are taking place in relation to events in The conversation. This includes a process where all voices are heard, complaints are investigated and appropriate actions are taken when necessary. “