Kelly Clarkson bid farewell to her eponymous talk show on Monday, marking the end of a seven-year run with an emotional and "bittersweet" final episode.
The finale featured a "Kelly By Request" segment where Clarkson performed covers and her latest single, "I’d Be Lyin'." The show concluded with her children, daughter River, 12, and son Remington, 10, joining her on stage.
Clarkson, 44, cited her children as a primary reason for doing the show, seeking stability and a consistent schedule for them. "They’re also a big reason it’s time to say goodbye," she stated, expressing pride in her "kiddos."
She reflected on how much her children have grown during the show's tenure, noting that River was in kindergarten when the show began and is now preparing for middle school. Remington marked his own milestone on the show with a singing debut, performing a Frank Sinatra song.
When asked about their favorite moments, Remington recalled his performance and a chat with actor Jason Momoa. River told her mother, "I like watching you shine every single day," a comment that brought Clarkson to tears.
Clarkson thanked the show's staff, crew, band, viewers, and guests. She reiterated her common sign-off: "Have a great day. And if it’s not, change it." She explained this mantra by emphasizing that while life's events are often out of one's control, individual responses and reactions are key. "You don’t have to attend the negative party you’ve been invited to," she quoted from a therapist.
"I loved being in [your] homes each day and loved seeing [my] kiddos grow up on this show," Clarkson said, expressing "immeasurable gratitude" for the experience.
The "Kelly Clarkson Show" first aired in September 2019. News of Clarkson's departure from the NBC show emerged in January, with the singer confirming the decision the following month. She stated that the move would allow her to "prioritize my kids, which feels necessary and right for this next chapter of our lives."
This decision followed the loss of Clarkson's ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, who died at 48 earlier in the year after a battle with cancer. A source indicated that Clarkson has been focused on providing stability and support for River and Remington as they navigate their grief.