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Shake Up

Julie Chen Leaving 'The Talk' Amid Les Moonves Sexual Assault Scandal

The host makes the news official on Tuesday's episode.

Julie Chen is leaving CBS’s daytime talk show The Talk. The news comes weeks after her husband Les Moonves finally stepped down from his position and chairman of CBS after Ronan Farrow‘s New Yorker investigation revealed six new women who accused him of sexual misconduct.

She appeared in a tape message at the end of the show today, September 18. She said, “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.”

Crying, she thanked the cast, crew, and viewers.

Julie’s husband Les was first accused of misconduct in July, in another story from the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist. Six women accused him of harassment and intimidation, and others argued that he fostered a culture of abuse. He denied the allegations.

At the time Julie, who also hosts Big Brother, tweeted a message of support for her husband.

She wrote in part, “Leslie is a good man and a loving father, devoted husband and inspiring corporate leader. He has always been a kind, decent and moral human being. I fully support my husband and stand behind him and his statement.”

Earlier this September, as CBS was trying to negotiate Les’ exit, Ronan dropped another blockbuster story. Six new women raised assault and harassment claims. Three hours after the story was published, he resigned.

Julie took a hiatus from The Talk but still hosted last week’s Big Brother. She signed off as “Julie Chen Moonves,” the first time she’s ever used her married name on air. Fans interpreted it as a sign of support for her husband.

A source told CNN, “She has decided that her main focus needs to be clearing her husband’s name from accusations made 25-30 years ago and tending to her son.” Charlie is nine.

Les said on the day he left, “Untrue allegations from decades ago are now being made against me that are not consistent with who I am.” CBS is still investigating the claims.

What do you think of Julie Chen’s decision to stand by Les Moonves? Sound off in the comments!

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