Allegations of a Toxic Work Culture Behind the Scenes
Allegations of a toxic work environment at The Kelly Clarkson Show have surfaced just as the daytime talk show prepares to move its production from Los Angeles to New York City. A May 12 exposé published by Rolling Stone revealed troubling claims from several former staff members, shedding light on their distressing experiences while working on the popular program. The allegations suggest that the working conditions, including overwork, low pay, and emotional strain, have taken a toll on employees, raising serious questions about the culture behind the scenes.
Claims of Overwork, Low Pay, and Emotional Strain
According to the report, numerous staffers, some with significant experience in the entertainment industry, reported feeling overworked and underpaid. One anonymous employee shared that the stress of the job had impacted their mental health, recalling a moment when they had to go to the roof of the stage to cry, questioning their career choices. “What am I doing? Why am I putting myself through this?” the employee lamented.
In addition to the emotional toll, many staffers revealed they were forced to take on side jobs just to make ends meet. Some resorted to babysitting, dog walking, and even working for Uber Eats, exposing the financial strain of working on the show.
Lack of Support and Unheard Complaints
Another recurring theme in the interviews was the lack of support from management. Despite raising concerns with the show’s human resources department, many staff members felt their complaints were dismissed, leaving them feeling isolated and unheard. One former staffer explained how this emotional detachment contributed to a “transactional” atmosphere at work, where recognition and appreciation were sparse. “It felt like it wasn’t about us,” the employee shared, emphasizing the absence of compassion in the workplace.
Allegations Against Executive Producer Alex Duda
The report also highlights accusations against The Kelly Clarkson Show‘s executive producer, Alex Duda. Several former employees described Duda as a “monster” and alleged that she had verbally abused staff, including cursing at them on stage. These allegations suggest a pattern of mistreatment, with some sources indicating that Duda’s behavior mirrors past reports of toxicity from her time working on other shows.
While Kelly Clarkson, who has hosted the show since 2019, has earned a reputation as a beloved figure among fans, the growing allegations about the toxic workplace culture have cast a shadow over the show’s success. Neither Clarkson nor Duda have publicly addressed these claims.
NBCUniversal’s Response
In response to the allegations, NBCUniversal, the network behind the show, issued a statement assuring the public that it is committed to maintaining a “safe and respectful work environment.” The statement emphasized that any reported issues are taken seriously and that complaints are investigated and addressed promptly.
“When issues are reported, they are promptly investigated and addressed appropriately,” the statement read. “The Kelly Clarkson Show is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, creative workplace for all staff members.” However, many former employees have voiced concerns that these assurances may not be enough to address the deeper, systemic issues within the production.
Relocation to New York City
Amid these allegations, The Kelly Clarkson Show is set to relocate its production from Los Angeles to New York City for the next season. The show will be filmed at the iconic Rockefeller Center, signaling a new chapter for the program. However, sources close to Clarkson have suggested that the move is unlikely to resolve the internal problems raised by the staff.
In particular, a source shared that Clarkson’s relationship with her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, is unlikely to be affected by the change in production locations. Despite their 2022 divorce, Clarkson and Blackstock continue to co-parent their children, River Rose and Remington, without any significant issues.
Will the Show Address the Allegations?
As The Kelly Clarkson Show enters this new phase with the production move to New York, the question remains whether the leadership will address the serious concerns raised by former employees. The show’s future could hinge on the network’s ability to respond effectively to the claims and make the necessary changes to improve the workplace environment. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see whether the show can overcome the allegations and create a healthier, more supportive environment for its staff in the seasons to come.
