The Talk’s Carrie Ann Inaba ‘replaced by NFL’s Victor Cruz’ in show shake-up as she takes ‘wellbeing’ break

Victor Cruz is reportedly joining The Talk (Picture: Rex/Getty)

The Talk’s Carrie Ann Inaba is being replaced by NFL star Victor Cruz following news of her departure, according to reports.

Just weeks after former co-host Sharon Osbourne quit the series, Carrie announced in April she would be taking a leave of absence from the CBS show to ‘focus on her wellbeing’.

Newcomer Victor looks set to join  Jerry O’Connell, the first male co-host to ever be featured on the show.

‘Carrie Ann is walking away from the show with her head held high,’ an insider said.

‘Another male will likely take her place – Victor Cruz is the clear favorite for the job.’

The source added to The Sun: ‘Sharon kept the show in the headlines. When a roach crawling behind Sheryl Underwood was the only thing getting attention, it was a sign to move on and try something new.’

Carrie Ann announced her hiatus from the show earlier this year (Picture: CBS)

Victor is no stranger to the show having appeared as a guest host only last month.

Carrie Ann previously shared the reason behind her absence in a video uploaded to Instagram where she also thanked fans for their support.

‘Hi everyone, so I wanted to let you know personally that I have decided to take a leave of absence from The Talk to focus on my well-being,’ she said. ‘I know you guys understand health is the most important thing, so I appreciate your support.

‘I appreciate the love and the support from The Talk family and I hope to be back soon.’

Sharon Osborne quit the series in March (Picture: CBS)

Carrie Ann concluded the message: ‘Take care and I’ll keep you updated. Thank you.’

Her exit came weeks after Sharon’s departure following a row with Black co-star Sheryl Underwood on March 10.

Sharon was defending Piers Morgan from allegations of racism after he said he did not believe what the Duchess of Sussex told Oprah Winfrey in their bombshell interview.

More: US TV news

After the argument, The Talk went on a month-long hiatus, and upon its return in April, it explored the controversy and featured a heavy focus on diversity and inclusion.

Metro.co.uk has contacted The Talk for comment

The Talk airs weekdays on CBS in the US.

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