Sherri Shepherd Breaks Silence on Talk Show Cancellation While Battling COVID-19
Daytime television host Sherri Shepherd has taken to social media to address the recent announcement that her eponymous talk show will be cancelled this autumn after four seasons. The 58-year-old comedian and presenter shared an emotional Instagram post this week, revealing she's currently absent from production due to contracting COVID-19.
Overwhelming Fan Support Amid Difficult News
Shepherd wrote on the platform: 'Wow! I am completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love for me and The @sherrishowtv.' She explained her recent absence from the daily program, stating: 'You might’ve noticed that yesterday and today I was struggling because I wasn’t feeling up to speed. Well it turns out I have Covid.'
The standup comic promised viewers she would address the cancellation news more thoroughly upon her return, writing: 'As soon as I feel better and return to the show, I will address all of the news that has come out.' She concluded her heartfelt message with gratitude: 'Until then, I am truly grateful that SHERRI has made such an impact on you! See ya soon❤️.'
Industry Figures and Fans Rally Behind Shepherd
Shepherd's Instagram caption was accompanied by two slides featuring screen captures of supportive social media comments from devoted viewers. One fan wrote: 'Sherri’s show was positive, funny and she genuinely was good at the job,' while another commented: 'This saddens me. I watch Sherri every single day. I love her.'
Fellow talk show host Tamron Hall offered encouragement in the comments section, noting Shepherd's numerous accomplishments: 'You just wrote your first children’s book. You are on an epic comedy tour, you have a podcast and you took over a daytime space and made it your own. I’m tired just listing all you have done! And the list of next chapter moments will be amazing ✈️❤️ love you Family.'
Actress Niecy Nash also shared supportive words, posting: 'Not over! Not over! Friend, you lived your dream and I’m so proud of you! Now let’s do it on your own terms WITH ownership! #Godisalwaysgood.'
Production Company Addresses Daytime Landscape Changes
The cancellation announcement came from Lionsgate's Debmar–Mercury sector, with co-presidents Ira Bernstein and Mort Marcus releasing a statement on Monday. They explained: 'This decision is driven by the evolving daytime television landscape and does not reflect on the strength of the show, its production — which has found strong creative momentum this season — or the incredibly talented Sherri Shepherd.'
The executives added an important note about potential future opportunities: 'We believe in this show and in Sherri and intend to explore alternatives for it on other platforms.' This suggests the program might potentially find a new home despite its cancellation from traditional daytime television scheduling.
Sherri originally launched in autumn 2022, taking over the time slot previously occupied by Wendy Williams's long-running talk show, which had aired for thirteen seasons before concluding. Shepherd's program has maintained a consistent viewership throughout its four-season run, with particular appreciation for the host's comedic background and engaging interview style.
The timing of Shepherd's COVID-19 diagnosis coinciding with the cancellation announcement has created a challenging period for the host, who must now navigate both health concerns and significant career developments simultaneously. Her transparent approach to sharing both personal and professional challenges has resonated strongly with her audience, as evidenced by the substantial outpouring of support across social media platforms.
