Following Wednesday’s episode of The Talk, Sharon Osbourne once again comments on the controversial conversation that took place regarding Piers Morgan and Meghan Markle.
On Wednesday, Osbourne expressed her support of her friend, stating, “Did I like everything he said? Did I agree with what he said? No,” she said. “It’s not my opinion … I support him for his freedom of speech, and he’s my friend.” However, by Friday, she was issuing apologies.
According to People, her support consequentially resulted in her being accused as racist.”What would you say to people who may feel that while you’re standing by your friend, it appears you gave validation or safe haven to something that he has uttered that is racist, even if you don’t agree?” co-host Sharyl Underwood asked during the show.
Although apologetic, Osbourne is blaming CBS for even bringing up the topic. The 68-year-old told Variety she was blindsided.
According to Osbourne, eight-minutes before showtime, showrunners asked: “if it was okay if they asked about Morgan.”
“I said, ‘Sure, they can ask me whatever.’ But then I get on there, I say my piece, and Sheryl [Underwood] turns around straight-faced, looks at me, and is reading from a card with questions,” Osburne explained. “I was just so hurt, caught off guard and stunned by what I was being asked and not prepared. I was honestly in shock. I felt like I was in front of a firing squad. I felt like a lamb held out for slaughter. They had me there for 20 minutes.”
“I was blindsided, totally blindsided by the whole situation. In my 11 years, this was the first time I was not involved with the planning the segment.”
Showrunners later explained to Osbourne that executives gave the order to execute the segment in such a-way.
According to People, CBS is now launching an internal investigation into the matter.
“We are committed to a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace,” the network said in a statement provided to PEOPLE on Friday. “All matters related to the Wednesday episode of The Talk are currently under internal review.”
