Jerry O’Connell Name New Co-Host on CBS Chatfest “The Talk”

Jerry O’Connell, a common guest co-host on “Live with Kelley,” has been named the replacement for Sharon Osbourne on CBS daytime hour “The Talk.” O’Connell’s addition was announced during the show yesterday as 47-year-old actor entered the studio dressed as Rocky Balboa while “Eye of the Tiger” played in the background.

“It’s really exciting,” he said following his entrance. “First of all I want to say, you ladies have been so welcoming to me, I mean, I came here as a guest, months ago, and just from the moment I walked in, you’re just gracious, you’re kind, you’re fun, and it worked.

In a statement, executive producers Heather Gray and Kristin Matthews said, “We are beyond thrilled Jerry O’Connell is our new host. We loved his infectious enthusiasm, humor, openness and insights as a guest co-host and look forward to him now bringing those dynamic qualities to the show every day. As an accomplished actor, devoted husband and father, Jerry will bring a unique and entertaining perspective to the conversation.”

O’Connell, who was briefly tested as host of his own syndicated first-run talker, is the first male co-host to join “The Talk” and he joins Sheryl Underwood, Elaine Welteroth, Amanda Kloots and Carrie Ann Inaba.