Let’s face it, stepping into someone else’s shoes can feel like walking on eggshells. But for Carrie Ann Inaba, joining The Talk as a replacement for Julie Chen doesn’t seem to have come with that awkward tension. In fact, Julie herself has gone above and beyond to ensure Carrie Ann feels right at home. And honestly, that kind of support speaks volumes.
At 51, Carrie Ann is no stranger to the spotlight, but taking on this new role must still carry its fair share of nerves. In a candid chat with People, she opened up about Julie’s heartfelt gesture. “Julie has been nothing but supportive,” Carrie Ann shared warmly. “When she found out I was joining the team, she sent me the most stunning floral arrangement. It was like, ‘Hey, I’ve got your back, girl.’ That kind of solidarity between women? That’s gold, people.” Julie’s gesture wasn’t just a formality—it was a genuine show of support. And it wasn’t until January 2 that the news officially broke: Carrie Ann, known for her role as a judge on Dancing With the Stars, would be filling Julie’s seat. Julie had been a beloved part of the CBS show since 2010, leaving in late 2018.
Angelica McDaniel, the Executive Vice President of Daytime Programs at CBS Entertainment, couldn’t have been more enthusiastic about the change. “We’re thrilled to welcome Carrie Ann Inaba to the The Talk table,” she announced. “What makes Carrie Ann so special is her ability to connect with audiences by simply being herself. Her warmth, sincerity, and vulnerability bring a unique energy to the show. We truly believe she’s going to be a fantastic addition to the team.”
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Carrie Ann's New Chapter: What She's Saying
It’s been just over a week since Carrie Ann started her new gig, and she’s already glowing about the experience. “The conversations we have at the table are so genuine, so packed with information and diverse perspectives,” she told NewsChannel 5 earlier this week. “I’m loving it. Having meaningful discussions is something we all need more of these days. It’s about learning how to communicate effectively and respectfully.”
Building Connections with Her New Co-Hosts
But it’s not just the show’s format that’s resonating with Carrie Ann—it’s the camaraderie. “I absolutely adore talking to these women. They’re smart, they’re strong, and they bring such a range of opinions to the table,” she revealed. “There’s so much to learn from them, and that’s what makes it exciting.” One of her new co-hosts, Sara Gilbert, who also created the show, echoed those sentiments. “Carrie Ann is real, and she brings so much of herself to the table,” Sara gushed. “She fits in perfectly—it’s like having a best friend over for coffee. When the right person joins the group, everything just clicks. With Carrie Ann, it’s like we’ve found that missing piece. She’s part of our family now.”
