Kelly Clarkson opened up with a heartfelt monologue to commemorate the milestone 1,000th episode of her self-titled daytime talk show. On the March 20th episode, the 42-year-old Grammy Award-winning singer and television personality warmly greeted her viewers with an emotional reflection on the show's growth and her personal transformation since its September 9, 2019, debut on NBC.
"Welcome to The Kelly Clarkson Show and our monumental 1,000th episode," exclaimed the artist behind "Since U Been Gone," her excitement palpable as she returned to the stage after an unexplained absence. "I can hardly believe today marks the 1,000th episode. It's absolutely surreal," she added, contemplating the journey spanning over five and a half years.
Clarkson continued, "We've encountered an array of incredibly talented individuals, numerous superstars, and everyday heroes who inspire us all." The former American Idol contestant reminisced about how she, her team, and her loyal fans "have fostered a community that has mutually supported each other through a myriad of highs and lows."
"And plenty of personal ups and downs too," she joked, subtly hinting at her own life's tumultuous moments. Clarkson also recounted navigating the COVID-19 pandemic together with her audience and taking them on international adventures to London and Australia.
The singer of "Miss Independent" shared anecdotes of hosting her show "with an eye patch and my leg encased in a cast," clarifying that "those were two distinct episodes, true to my eclectic self." For Clarkson, this 1,000th episode evoked memories of her producers and audience discovering not only her fascination with magic tricks but also her culinary ineptitude. "Still can't cook," she admitted playfully.
As she mentioned holiday traditions, furry guests, the show's relocation to New York, and more, Clarkson also回顾了一些感人瞬间。"Over the course of 1,000 episodes, we've laughed, cried together over heartwarming tales, sung in unison with guests, danced, celebrated, and competed side by side," she reminisced.
"I've faced losses, alone, many times," Clarkson added cryptically, not elaborating on the personal hardships she referenced. The singer and her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, were married for almost seven years before separating in June 2020. Amidst her marriage dissolution, she embarked on a weight loss journey.
"I was going through an incredibly tumultuous phase, and even during the first season, it was challenging behind closed doors," Clarkson told PEOPLE in a January 2025 cover story, reflecting on her growth. "To enter season five feeling good and knowing my kids are content—and with the storm having passed—this is my first season where I've truly enjoyed every moment."
"It's alright," she reassured her audience, who responded warmly to her speech. "And throughout this journey, we found solace in each other's company. Looking back, we're all incredibly proud of what we've accomplished and the community we've nurtured," Clarkson stated. "I'm deeply grateful to everyone who has been a part of this incredible ride. It's been an extraordinary time. Thank you from the bottom of my heart."
