Maury Povich, the 83-year-old host of the iconic daytime talk show Maury, has announced his retirement, bringing the series to a close after more than 30 seasons. The show, known for its dramatic paternity reveals and catchphrase 'You are not the father!', will stop producing new episodes this fall, though reruns will continue in syndication.
Povich revealed that he had been ready to retire six years ago but agreed to continue out of loyalty to NBCUniversal and his staff. 'Even though I told them I was ready for assisted living, out of loyalty to NBCUniversal and my more than 100 staff and crew members ... I agreed to one more deal,' he said in a statement. He added, 'I'm so proud of my relationship with NBCUniversal and all those who worked on the Maury show but as I occasionally tell my guests on Maury, "Enough, already!"'
Tracie Wilson, executive vice president of NBCUniversal Syndication Studios, confirmed that the decision to end the show was made two years ago. 'Maury is a television icon, a pop culture legend and we couldn't be more proud to have been a part of his incredible career,' she said. The show first aired in 1991 as The Maury Povich Show on Paramount Domestic Television, later shortened to Maury in 1998 when production moved to Studio USA, which was subsequently acquired by NBCUniversal.
Povich, who began his career as a radio reporter, previously hosted the tabloid show A Current Affair. In a 2012 interview, he attributed the show's enduring popularity to its exploration of classic themes such as love, distrust, and conflict, particularly in paternity episodes. He also expressed a desire not to host the show into old age, saying, 'I don't want do it when I'm as old as [the late] Regis [Philbin].'
The show's conclusion coincides with the launch of a new talk show hosted by Queer Eye star Karamo Brown, who previously guest-hosted Maury. The Karamo Brown show, produced by NBCUniversal, will air on The CW affiliates and other stations beginning this autumn, with Maury executive producer Paul Faulhaber serving in the same capacity.
