CBS’ “The Talk” was put on temporary hiatus this week in the wake of an on-air debate about co-host Sharon Osbourne’s support of Piers Morgan amid blowback over his lambasting of Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex.
The live broadcasts for Monday and Tuesday were canceled as the network investigates a heated exchange between Osbourne and co-host Sheryl Underwood during the March 10 show, Deadline reported.
Osbourne, who is white, became upset when she was called out for her support of Morgan, who is also white, for his dismissal of Markle’s claims of mental health issues and mistreatment from the royal family. Markle, whose mother is African American, said she and husband Prince Harry were subjected to racist comments from family members.
Underwood, who is Black, told Osbourne, “While you are standing by your friend, it appears that you are giving validation or safe haven to something that he has uttered that is racist.”
CBS later issued a statement: “We are committed to a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace. All matters related to the Wednesday episode of ‘The Talk’ are currently under internal review.”
Osbourne has since offered an apology.