Entertainment
Sharon Osbourne and Sheryl Underwood’s racism clash on The Talk sparks internal investigation
An internal review has been launched by The Talk bosses over a heated discussion between Sharon Osbourne and Sheryl Underwood.
The pair had an intense chat on Wednesday’s episode, which focused on the backlash surrounding Piers Morgan’s comments about Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, and their bombshell Oprah Winfrey interview.
The former X Factor judge revealed she had been accused of being racist by defending her pal – who quit Good Morning Britain this week.
CBS announced they have now initiated an internal investigation into the scenes.
‘We are committed to a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace,’ a spokesperson told People in a statement.
‘All matters related to the Wednesday episode of The Talk are currently under internal review.’
Following Meghan and Harry’s interview with Oprah, Piers came under fire for his comments on Good Morning Britain, when he stated that he didn’t believe the Duchess of Sussex when she said she had been suicidal and was rejected when she sought psychiatric help.
The scenes led to 41,000 complaints to Ofcom, with Meghan submitting her own objection to the TV watchdog and to ITV bosses.
As the fallout continued, Sheryl and Sharon discussed the backlash on The Talk, on Wednesday, with the latter offering her support to Piers.
She said ‘Did I like everything he said? Did I agree with what he said? No. Because it’s his opinion. It’s not my opinion… I support him for his freedom of speech, and he’s my friend.
‘I’m not racist… I don’t care what colour or what religion anyone is. Are you a nice person? That’s what I judge you on.’
To which Sheryl replied: ‘What would you say to people who may feel that while you’re standing by your friend, it appears you gave validation or safe haven to something that he has uttered that is racist, even if you don’t agree?’
Her co-star responded: ‘I very much feel like I’m about to be put in the electric chair because I have a friend, who many people think is a racist, so that makes me a racist? What does it gotta do with me?’
Visibly emotional, she continued: ‘I will ask you again Sheryl, I’ve been asking you during the break and I’m asking you again, and don’t try and cry ‘cause if anyone should be crying it should be me. Educate me.
‘Tell me when you have heard him say racist things.’
Sheryl calmly explained: ‘It is not the exact words of racism, it’s the implication and the reaction to it.
‘To not want to address that because she is a Black woman, and to try to dismiss it or to make it seem less than what it is that’s what makes it racist. But right now, I’m talking to a woman I believe is my friend and I don’t want anybody here to watch this and think we are attacking you for being racist.’
There was fierce backlash from those watching and the clip quickly went viral, leading to Sharon issuing an apology.
‘I panicked, felt blindsided, got defensive & allowed my fear & horror of being accused of being racist take over,’ she shared on Instagram.
‘There are very few things that hurt my heart more than racism so to feel associated with that spun me fast! I am not perfect, I am still learning like the rest of us & will continue to learn, listen and do better.’
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