Carrie Ann Inaba Is Reportedly Replacing Julie Chen On ‘The Talk’

Congratulations are in order for Carrie Ann Inaba — she reportedly has a new co-hosting gig on The Talk! The 50-year-old Dancing With the Stars judge will permanently fill Julie Chen‘s empty seat on the popular daytime talk show starting in January, Variety revealed on Thursday, Dec. 6. CBS has declined to comment on the news at this time.

Carrie has regularly served as a guest-host on The Talk since mid-September when Julie, 48, announced her departure from the series — which also stars Sharon Osbourne, The Conners actress Sara Gilbert, Sheryl Underwood, and Eve — following sexual misconduct allegations against her husband, former CBS Chairman and CEO Les Moonves.

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“I have been at The Talk since the day it started nine years ago, and the cast, crew, and staff have become family to me over the years. But right now, I need to spend more time at home with my husband and our young son. So I’ve decided to leave The Talk,” Julie began her tearful goodbye message to her fans during a pre-recorded video played on the daytime program back in September.

“I want to thank everyone at the show for our wonderful years together. I will always, always cherish the memories we shared. Most important, I want to thank you, the viewers, for allowing me into your home every day. It was a privilege that I will forever be grateful for. To everyone behind the scenes… I send you my love. I will miss you all very, very much,” Julie continued.

Farewell ❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/1eOCpelor1

— Julie Chen Moonves (@JCMoonves) September 18, 2018

At one point during her speech, Julie seemingly hinted that she wanted Carrie Ann to take over her co-host chair after working with her several times in the past when she guest-hosted the program. “Carrie Ann, I don’t know — but in my opinion, you look awful good sitting in that chair, my Asian sister,” Julie said at the time.

We’re sure Julie is thrilled Carrie Ann has reportedly landed the gig — we can’t wait to see Carrie Ann on The Talk as a regular host in the future!