has spoken for the first time since eleven staffers came forward to accuse her NBC talk show of fostering a toxic work environment.
The Kelly Clarkson Show employees claimed they were bullied and yelled at by senior team members, leaving one ‘traumatised’ and taking a leave of absence due to deterioration.
‘It is by far the worst experience I’ve ever had in my entire life,’ they said. ‘It deterred me from wanting to work in daytime ever again.’
Another former worker said they were forced to quit the show after being shouted and cursed at by senior staff members causing them to develop so much they would regularly vomit.
However, the production team told they were under the impression the American Idol star, 41, was unaware of the conditions for more junior members.
‘Kelly is fantastic. She is a person who never treats anyone with anything but dignity and is incredibly appreciative,’ one commented.
The Because of You singer has now addressed the allegations of the toxic workplace environment writing on Instagram that ‘anyone is feeling unheard and or disrespected on this show is unacceptable.’
She added: ‘In my 20 years in the entertainment industry, I’ve always led with my heart and what I believed to be right. I love my team at The Kelly Clarkson Show and to find out that anyone is feeling unheard and or disrespected on this show is unacceptable.
‘I have always been, and will continue to be, committed to creating and maintaining a safe and healthy environment at The Kelly Clarkson Show.
‘As we prepare for a move to the east coast, I am more committed than ever to ensuring that not only our team that is moving, but also our new team in NY, is comprised of the best and kindest in the business.’
The Since U Been Gone hitmaker continued: ‘Part of that build will include leadership training for all of the senior staff, including myself. There is always room to grow and ensure we are all being/becoming the best version of ourselves in any business, especially when it comes to leadership, to ensure that any notion of toxicity is eradicated.’
Seven former staffers, who left The Kelly Clarkson Show, said they outlined their grievances with NBC in their exit interview.
Among them was one ex-worker who claimed they informed an HR rep of the senior staff’s behaviour, who agreed they were unprofessional.
But despite the concern raised, the members of the team in question later ended up getting promotions.
‘I don’t know what HR does at that show, frankly,’ the former employee said. ‘Nothing of consequence happened.’
When asked about the claims, a NBCU spokesperson told they are ‘committed to a safe and respectful work environment and take workplace complaints very seriously and to insinuate otherwise is untrue.’
‘When issues are reported they are promptly reviewed, investigated and acted upon as appropriate,’ the representative said in a statement. The Kelly Clarkson Show strives to build a safe, respectful and equitable workplace that nurtures a culture of inclusivity and creativity.’
The Kelly Clarkson Show debuted on NBC in 2019 and has seen appearances from stars including Jake Gyllenhaal and Khloé Kardashian.
Metro.co.uk has contacted NBC for comment.
