• Kelly Clarkson announced in February that The Kelly Clarkson Show would end after seven seasons in the fall of 2026.
  • Rita Wilson appeared as a guest on the May 27 episode to praise Kelly for revolutionizing daytime television, moving Kelly to tears.
  • Fans flooded social media with emotional responses that celebrate Kelly's impact on TV.

As we get closer to the last episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, Kelly Clarkson is sharing some big feelings.

Back in February, the singer shocked viewers by announcing that The Kelly Clarkson Show would end in the fall of 2026 after seven seasons. Although Kelly has spoken about the reason for the decision, it seems she still has some emotions to work through regarding the final episode.

As such, Kelly shed some tears when singer and actress Rita Wilson appeared as a guest on the May 27 episode of TKCS. While Kelly wanted to talk to Rita about the essentials she uses on tour, Rita had a different plan and praised Kelly for the time she’s invested in her show.

“I just want to say one thing before we go,” Rita began in the clip posted on YouTube. “I want to thank you for the years that you’ve been doing your show. I want to thank you for literally changing the game when it came to daytime television.”

“The fact that you love music, that you have brought so much music to daytime, that you have shared with us your voice, your gifts, and everyone else’s, and your incredible band, I really want to thank you,” Rita added. “Because it has made a big change in my life. So, thank you, Kelly.”

After Rita’s emotional declaration, Kelly gave her a big hug—and had something to say herself.

“I’m not crying,” Kelly jokingly replied while tearing up. “I’m like, ‘Shut it off—it’s OK.’”

Shortly after the video started going viral, fans sounded off in the comments.

“She nailed it I'm going to miss this show,” one person wrote. “Love Rita and I love how everyone is recognizing Kelly for how amazing she is, and this show has been ❤️,” another agreed. “I love this whole thing,” a different follower added.

If this is just the beginning, we can only imagine what’s going to happen when Kelly films her last episode!