This Legendary Actress Just Made Kelly Clarkson Cry Happy Tears On Live TV

Quick Smiles:

• Rita Wilson delivered a heartfelt tribute to Kelly Clarkson during her final season, honoring her impact on daytime television
• Kelly chose to end her Emmy-winning show to spend more precious time with her children
• The touching moment ended with both stars performing together, leaving fans smiling through happy tears

The Kelly Clarkson Show will officially end in the fall of 2026. Kelly announced her departure from the show in February 2026.

Following the death of her children’s father in August 2025, Kelly found herself wanting more time with her son and daughter. To prioritize her family, like many working moms, Kelly realized that something had to give.

Sadly, for fans of her Emmy-winning talk show, it was the easiest to say goodbye to. During her final season, Kelly Clarkson is bringing on beloved guests, like Rita Wilson.

During Rita’s appearance on May 27, 2026, she said something that brought the OG American Idol to tears.

Rita Wilson Thanked Kelly Clarkson for Being a Pioneer

Rita Wilson shared her love for Kelly Clarkson and how she reinvented daytime television.

“I wanna thank you for the years that you’ve been doing your show,” Rita said. “I wanna thank you for literally changing the game when it came to daytime television. The fact that you love music. That you have brought so much music to daytime that you have shared with us. Your voice, your gifts, and everyone else’s and your incredible band. I really wanna thank you because it has made a big change in my life. So thank you, Kelly.”

Rita Wilson then joined Kelly on stage for a performance. Seeing the pair smiling and singing made fans happy.

Although we will miss Kelly Clarkson and her show tremendously, especially Kellyoke, we completely respect her decision. Kids are only little for so long, and you can never get that time back.

Good for her. We know those kids will never forget just how much their momma loves them.

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