Pink is stepping in as a guest host on The Kelly Clarkson Show, and the timing has fans buzzing with speculation that NBC could be quietly auditioning her as a future replacement.
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The singer is set to take over a full week of episodes beginning March 2, as part of the show's Women's History Month programming.
Following the announcement, viewers immediately began questioning whether the extended run signals something more.
'A WHOLE WEEK?!' one fan wrote on X. 'Y'all trying her out as a replacement???'
Another added: 'Are they testing her out?? Because… I wouldn't hate it.'
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While guests hosts are nothing new in daytime TV, fans were quick to note that Pink isn't just filling in for a single episode.
Pink is stepping in as a guest host on The Kelly Clarkson Show - and the timing has fans buzzing with speculation that NBC could be quietly auditioning her as a future replacement; seen in 2017
That alone sparked chatter that NBC may be gauging audience response.
'Kellyoke, but Pink singing Kelly Clarkson songs,' one viewer joked, while another speculated, 'She will be amazing as a host.'
Still, not everyone was thrilled by the idea of extended guest hosting.
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Some longtime viewers expressed concern about seeing less of Kelly Clarkson herself.
'That is sad to hear,' one fan wrote. 'So few episodes of the show left - I'd much rather see Kelly. I hope we don't get any more guest hosts.'
'The only thing that bums me out about Pink hosting a week of The Kelly Clarkson Show is that I'm not going to be able to be there to watch her,' Clarkson said in a statement. 'I have been a fan for so long and have always been inspired by her music and her person. I love her!'
Pink, for her part, leaned into the moment, without directly addressing replacement rumors.
'I've played stadiums and danced on the side of buildings,' she said, 'but stepping in to guest host for my girl Kelly Clarkson is a brand new feat!'Last week, Clarkson shockingly announced to fans that she was quitting her NBC talk show after seven seasons.
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The singer will guest host a full week of episodes beginning March 2, as part of the show's Women's History Month programming
Last week, Clarkson shockingly announced to fans that she was quitting her NBC talk show after seven seasons
The 43-year-old star, whose ex-husband Brandon Blackstock passed away last August following a battle with cancer, shared the surprising news that the current season of The Kelly Clarkson Show will be her last.
The Stronger hitmaker explained she was stepping back from the show to 'prioritize' her two children and sent gratitude to the team she has worked with over the years.
A source recently told People that Clarkson is looking forward to a slower pace amid the 'next phase' in her life.
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'After years of an intense daily schedule, she's excited to move at a different pace and have more flexibility to spend time with her kids without the structure of a daily show,' the insider said.
The songstress will also have extra time 'to be more present at home while still doing the creative work she loves.'
'After years of an intense daily schedule, she's excited to move at a different pace and have more flexibility to spend time with her kids without the structure of a daily show,' the insider said
'Kelly still wants to make music and perform, and she's open to popping up on projects she enjoys, but nothing that requires an ongoing daily grind,' the source added; Clarkson seen in July 2025 in Las Vegas
In regards to what else she has in store for the future, the source said that Clarkson will continue to pursue her passion for music.
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'Kelly still wants to make music and perform, and she's open to popping up on projects she enjoys, but nothing that requires an ongoing daily grind.'
The insider continued, 'For her, this next phase is about balance.'
Earlier this month, the performer took to Instagram to announce to fans and viewers of her daytime talk show that the seventh season will be the last - after the series first premiered in 2019.
'I have been extremely fortunate to work with such an outstanding group of people at TKCS, both in Los Angeles and New York,' Clarkson began in a statement.
She further reflected on the 'amazing moments' during her time on the show before sending gratitude to her crew, band and the fans.
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The star called NBC an 'incredible partner' before admitting that it was 'not an easy decision' to step away from the talk show.
'Stepping away from the daily schedule will allow me to prioritize my kids, which feels necessary and right for this next chapter of our lives.
Earlier this month, the performer took to Instagram to announce to fans and viewers of her daytime talk show that the current seventh season will be the last - after the series first premiered in 2019
'This isn't goodbye,' the mom-of-two expressed. 'I'll still be making music, playing shows here and there, and you may catch me on The Voice from time to time... you never know where I might show up next.'
In conclusion, the singer wrote, 'But for now, I want to thank y'all so much for allowing our show to be a part of your lives, and for believing in us and hanging with us for seven incredible years.'
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The Kelly Clarkson Show has raked in a number of accolades during the course of its time on the air.
Most recently, the NBC series was nominated for eight Daytime Emmy Awards last year - winning two for Best Lighting Direction as well as Outstanding Live Sound Mixing and Sound Editing.