Julie Chen Steps Aside: Jerry O'Connell Takes Over 'Big Brother' Hosting Duties

Julie Chen Shares Heartfelt Message About Her Health

It's been a historic moment for Big Brother fans. For the first time ever, the show's iconic host, Julie Chen, won't be hosting the live eviction episode. In a candid post on her X account, Julie revealed the reason behind her absence on Thursday, September 12. "Friday morning, I woke up with a sore throat and decided to visit my good friend, an ENT specialist. That evening, he called me with some unexpected news—I have COVID. Thankfully, this is only the second time I've had it, and it's been relatively mild. No fever, just a sore throat," she wrote.

Why Julie Chen Won’t Be Hosting Tonight’s Show

Despite feeling physically strong and her cough subsiding, Julie shared that she's still testing positive for the virus. "Unfortunately, as of this morning, I’m still testing positive... even though I feel good and strong. I must sit out tonight's Big Brother live eviction show," she continued. Julie expressed her gratitude to Jerry O'Connell for stepping in to fill her shoes. "Thank you, Jerry, for filling in for me. I hope you fit into my dress, have a blast, and tell the houseguests I miss them but will be watching from home," she joked.

Julie’s Humorous Take on the Situation

"See? Chenbot is human after all!" Julie quipped with her characteristic humor. "Love one another and enjoy tonight’s show." Her message was filled with warmth, reminding everyone to support each other during challenging times. It's this personal touch that has made her a beloved figure in the world of reality TV.

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Jerry O'Connell Steps Into the Spotlight

Jerry O'Connell, 50, is set to make his debut as the host of Big Brother tonight. Fans were given a sneak peek of his preparation in a video posted on The Talk's Instagram account. The caption read, "Jerry O'Connell is on double duty today with a live show today AND hosting Big Brother. But first, Julie Chen Moonves joins us on today’s show." In the video, Jerry humorously referred to himself as the "substitute teacher for Big Brother." He acknowledged Julie's illness with heartfelt words, saying, "Julie Chen Moonves is a little under the weather. We love her. But first, Julie Chen Moonves is going to be on The Talk. We’re so excited it’s going to be her big return to our show." He ended his segment with enthusiasm, "We got an eviction tonight. Let's get to it!"

Fans React with Enthusiasm to Jerry's Hosting Gig

The comments section of the video quickly filled with messages of support for Jerry. One fan exclaimed, "JERRRRY OMG AAAH IM SO EXCITED FOR THIS UR GONNA SLAY OMGGGG EVICTION BABY EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED." Another wrote, "LET’S GO! HUGE! MR. BING BONG IN THE BB HOUSE," while a third commenter shared, "Love @juliechenmoonves and hope she has a speedy recovery 🙏 ❤️ @mrjerryoc you’re going to be awesome on BB tonight, eviction night." It's clear that fans are eager to see what Jerry brings to the table.

Julie’s Final Words Before the Show

Julie discussed her diagnosis during a call-in to an episode of The Talk before Jerry's hosting debut. "Tonight is a big night," Jerry told Julie. She elaborated, explaining that the evicted contestant would become the first member of the jury this season. Jerry, no stranger to hosting, having been an official cohost on The Talk since 2021, is ready to bring his charm to Big Brother. He and his wife, Rebecca Romijn, also cohosted The Real Love Boat together.

Looking Ahead: The Future of 'The Talk'

Back in April, it was announced that The Talk would conclude after one final season. Jerry likened the show's end to Pat Sajak leaving Wheel of Fortune after 41 seasons as host. "I was actually cool with it until I watched Vanna White's goodbye video yesterday," he admitted to Entertainment Tonight in June. "I found it to be very emotional [when Pat said] 'Vanna, we love you. I know this is the end of a chapter, but it's the beginning of a new one. We love you, Vanna White.' That made me kind of emotional." As the chapter closes, Jerry's legacy with The Talk will undoubtedly be fondly remembered.