Carrie Ann Inaba's "The Talk" Exit: Why She's Not Returning?

Prof. Antoinette Schowalter 06 May 2025

Is the curtain truly closing on Carrie Ann Inaba's chapter on "The Talk"? The departure of Carrie Ann Inaba from CBS's daytime talk show, "The Talk," signals not just the end of a professional stint, but perhaps, a deeper reflection on the demands of a high-profile career and the complexities of personal well-being.

Loyal viewers, seasoned in the ebb and flow of television personalities, likely anticipated this development. In April 2021, Inaba embarked on an extended leave of absence, citing personal health concerns. Her absence, coupled with the recent announcement of her permanent departure, has ignited conversations about the toll that the entertainment industry can take on its stars.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Carrie Ann Inaba
Date of Birth	January 5, 1968
Place of Birth	Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
Nationality	American
Occupation	Dancer, Choreographer, Actress, Television Host, Judge
Known For	Judge on "Dancing with the Stars," Co-host on "The Talk"
Education	University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Years Active	1980spresent
Marital Status	Single (Previously married to Jesse Glick)
Notable Health Battles	Fibromyalgia, Spinal Stenosis, Lupus, Sjgren's syndrome
"The Talk" Tenure	2019-2021 (Co-host)
"Dancing with the Stars" Tenure	2005-2020 (Judge)
Notable Works	"In Living Color" (Dancer) "Dancing with the Stars" (Judge) "The Talk" (Co-host)
Awards/Recognition	Primetime Emmy Award nomination (Outstanding Choreography)
Link to Reference	Wikipedia

The whispers swirling around her exit hint at a possible link to the health struggles that have punctuated her illustrious career. The demands of television, coupled with the pressures of public scrutiny, can prove overwhelming. "The Talk," a platform that provided her a significant stage, was also a crucible, and her decision to step away sparks contemplation about the balance between professional achievement and personal well-being.

Carrie Ann Inaba's journey on "The Talk" began in 2019, when she stepped in to fill the seat vacated by Julie Chen Moonves. She quickly became a familiar face, bringing her characteristic warmth and perspective to the show. Her presence added a unique dynamic to the panel, offering her insights drawn from her own experiences in the entertainment world. It was a role where her charisma and empathetic nature found a natural fit, further endearing her to audiences.

The departure has not been without its complexities. Following the initial leave of absence, the announcement of her permanent exit was confirmed, leaving many fans and industry insiders reflecting on the circumstances. The show itself is preparing to conclude later this year, adding another layer to the narrative, particularly considering the ongoing shifts and changes within the landscape of daytime television.

In the wake of the news, Inaba has taken to social media to express her gratitude. "I enjoyed my time at the talk as cohost and," she mentioned in an instagram post. The sentiment of appreciation is echoed by the producers of "The Talk." Cliff Lipson, CBS's representative and the show's executive, alongside his colleagues Gray and Matthews expressed their thanks. They acknowledged her contributions during her time on the show. This public acknowledgment underscores the mutual respect that often exists within the often-turbulent world of television.

The challenges Inaba faced weren't purely professional. Her exit coincides with internal conflicts and changing dynamics within the show's ecosystem. Reports of behind-the-scenes tensions, including a widely publicized cast feud involving Sharon Osbourne, created an environment far from ideal. There were whispers of the desire for change, even to the point of looking to replace her with a male host. The weight of these factors possibly added to the pressures influencing her decision to step away, underscoring the multifaceted nature of her departure.

In March 2021, while Inaba was away, a confrontation involving the show's hosts, particularly concerning race, created a significant amount of tension. A source was quoted by "Page Six", that following this incident, a diversity and inclusion agency was brought in to mediate and help repair the situation. It was a period of tumult that impacted everyone involved, and the ramifications of these events surely factored into Inaba's perception of her experience on the program.

The show's ending, which is slated for later this year, also influenced her decision. She expressed a sense of sadness upon learning of the cancellation, sharing her feelings with "a lot of people" after the announcement. This demonstrates the close bonds she formed during her time on the show, and also highlights the inevitable emotional complexities that come with the end of a successful venture.

The significance of Inaba's role is further illuminated by the context of the show's history. "The Talk," which also featured personalities such as Amanda Kloots, Marie Osmond, and Leah Remini, became a platform for diverse voices and conversations. Inaba's presence enriched this dynamic, and her contributions will undoubtedly be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.

Prior to her time on "The Talk," Inaba had already established herself as a beloved figure in the world of entertainment. As a judge on "Dancing with the Stars" for over a decade, she became known for her insightful critiques, her ability to connect with contestants, and her unwavering support for the art of dance. This dual roleas judge and hostunderscores her versatility and adaptability within the industry. Her role as a judge on "Dancing with the Stars" also allowed her to connect with a broader audience, establishing her as a respected figure in the entertainment world.

Her exit, however, marks a significant moment in the evolution of both her career and "The Talk." The show, which initially welcomed her as a permanent replacement for Julie Chen Moonves, will now continue without her. The circumstances surrounding her departure raise important questions about how performers navigate the pressures of the spotlight and the importance of prioritizing health and well-being.

The focus on Inaba's health is also understandable. In April 2021, she took a leave of absence from "The Talk," to focus on her personal health. "I know you guys understand, health is the most important thing," she announced on Instagram. This public affirmation underscores her commitment to her well-being, and serves as an important reminder of the human element that exists behind the public persona.

The circumstances surrounding her departure also illuminate the changing nature of television and the evolving expectations of its audiences. The entertainment industry constantly undergoes transformation, and Inaba's decision perhaps reflects the changing priorities of its stars and the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

The details of Carrie Ann Inaba's career, from her early beginnings to her recent roles, offer a glimpse into her professional trajectory. From dancer on the show "In Living Color" to judge on "Dancing with the Stars," her talent and dedication are obvious. These experiences have prepared her for her time on "The Talk," where she has made a memorable mark. Her departure serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of a high-profile career and the importance of making choices that prioritize well-being.

As "The Talk" prepares to conclude its run, the lasting impact of Inaba's presence on the show remains. The daytime show is winding down and set to end in less than a month with a final episode airing on December 20. Her warmth, her ability to connect with the audience, and her resilience in the face of health challenges will be remembered as hallmarks of her time on the show.

Carrie Ann Inaba's story transcends the confines of a simple exit; it is a narrative about the importance of making choices that align with one's well-being, even when it means stepping away from a successful platform. It is a story that resonates with many, and her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire audiences long after the final credits roll on "The Talk."