After 14 years of engaging conversations, groundbreaking discussions, and memorable moments, The Talk is set to come to an end this December. Since its debut on October 18, 2010, this CBS daytime talk show has been a staple for many households, providing a blend of entertainment, emotional stories, and insightful commentary. The announcement earlier this year marked the end of an era, and the final episodes are set to air from Monday, December 16, culminating in the series finale on Friday, December 20, at 2 p.m. ET.
As we approach the conclusion of this beloved series, fans are gearing up for a mix of nostalgia, excitement, and bittersweet goodbyes. Let’s take a look back at The Talk’s journey, its cultural impact, and what’s next for CBS’s daytime lineup.
A Trailblazing Start
When The Talk premiered in 2010, it redefined CBS’s daytime offerings by introducing a fresh and dynamic format. Created by actress and producer Sara Gilbert, the show featured a panel of women discussing current events, personal stories, and trending topics. Modeled after similar talk shows, The Talk stood out by fostering an intimate, family-like atmosphere among its hosts and viewers.
The original panel included Sara Gilbert, Julie Chen Moonves, Holly Robinson Peete, Leah Remini, and Sharon Osbourne. Over the years, the lineup evolved, welcoming a variety of talented hosts, such as Sheryl Underwood, Amanda Kloots, Akbar Gbajabiamila, Jerry O’Connell, Natalie Morales, Aisha Tyler, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Marie Osmond. Each brought their unique voice, enriching the show’s diversity and relatability.
CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach and CBS Studios President David Stapf praised the show’s legacy, stating:
“The Talk broke new ground when it launched 14 years ago by returning daytime talk to CBS with a refreshing and award-winning format. Throughout the years, it has been a key program on CBS’ top-rated daytime lineup as it brought timely, important, and entertaining topics and discussions into living rooms around the globe.”
A Memorable Journey
Throughout its run, The Talk became known for addressing a variety of topics, from lighthearted pop culture to serious social issues. It consistently struck a balance between humor, warmth, and depth, resonating with a wide audience.
The show earned multiple awards, including Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Hosts and Outstanding Talk Show. Its unique approach to audience engagement and its willingness to tackle challenging subjects earned it a loyal fan base.
Earlier this year, the show introduced a new segment, Stand Up at The Talk, featuring guest comedians performing live for the first time in the series’ history. This addition brought a fresh energy to the show, showcasing its ability to evolve and remain relevant.
The Final Episodes
The final week of episodes promises to be a grand farewell. Current hosts Akbar Gbajabiamila, Amanda Kloots, Sheryl Underwood, Jerry O’Connell, and Natalie Morales will lead viewers through an exciting lineup of holiday-themed content. Over $2.5 million in giveaways are planned for December, ensuring a celebratory send-off for fans.
While the list of final guests has yet to be revealed, audiences can expect major surprises, emotional moments, and heartfelt reflections on the show’s impact. For fans, these episodes represent a chance to savor the magic of The Talk one last time.
What’s Next for CBS?
As The Talk exits the stage, CBS is set to introduce a new daytime drama, Beyond the Gates, premiering February 24, 2025. This groundbreaking soap opera will feature a predominantly African-American cast, marking a historic moment for daytime television.
Beyond the Gates revolves around the Dupree family, a multigenerational African-American family navigating life in the affluent, gated community of Fairmont Estates near Washington, D.C. The series stars an ensemble cast, including Lauren Buglioli, Clifton Davis, Daphnée Duplaix, Timon Kyle Durrett, and Mike Manning.
This marks the first daytime soap opera with an African-American cast since NBC’s Generations in 1989 and the first new daytime soap on a major broadcast network since Passions debuted in 1999.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
For fans of The Talk, saying goodbye will undoubtedly be difficult. The show has been a comforting presence in many lives, offering relatable stories and heartwarming moments. Its end marks the close of a significant chapter in CBS’s daytime programming history.
As the hosts gear up for their final moments on air, they carry with them the legacy of a show that celebrated inclusivity, community, and meaningful dialogue. While it’s the end of The Talk, the connections it fostered among viewers and the conversations it sparked will leave a lasting impact.
So, as December 20 approaches, tune in to celebrate the legacy of The Talk. With giveaways, special guests, and perhaps a few surprises, the final episodes are shaping up to be a celebration worthy of this iconic show.
Looking Ahead
The transition from The Talk to Beyond the Gates represents a shift in CBS’s approach to daytime programming. While one era ends, another begins, bringing new stories, perspectives, and possibilities to the screen.
As we bid farewell to The Talk, we can look forward to the continued evolution of television, where innovation and representation take center stage. Whether through heartfelt discussions or compelling dramas, CBS remains committed to connecting with its audience in meaningful ways.
So here’s to The Talk—a show that made us laugh, cry, and think. Its legacy will live on, not just in its episodes, but in the hearts of the viewers it touched over the past 14 years.
