Kelly Clarkson pauses show after emotional guest tribute

Kelly Clarkson was visibly moved on her daytime talk show after guest Rita Wilson delivered a heartfelt on air tribute praising her impact on television and music.

During the Wednesday, May 27 episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, the veteran star took a moment to share her admiration ahead of the show’s upcoming end, saying,

She said, "I just wanna say one thing before we go, I wanna thank you for the years that you’ve been doing your show."

She continued, "I wanna thank you for literally changing the game when it came to daytime television. The fact that you love music."

Moreover, she added, "That you have brought so much music to daytime that you have shared with us. Your voice, your gifts, and everyone else’s and your incredible band. I really wanna thank you because it has made a big change in my life. So thank you, Kelly.”

As the audience reacted with applause, the American Idol alum grew visibly emotional, eventually rising from her seat to warmly hugged the guest, saying, “Oh my God!” and joking, “I’m like, ‘Shut it off!’ It’s okay.”

Clarkson previously announced the show will end after its fall season to focus on her children, River Rose and Remington Alexander, following major changes in her family life after the death of her former husband Brandon Blackstock in August 2025.

She had earlier shared, “This was not an easy decision, but this season will be my last hosting ‘The Kelly Clarkson Show.’”

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