Former NFL star and host of “American Ninja Warrior,” Akbar Gbajabiamila, has been announced as the new male co-host of “The Talk.”
“It is an absolute honor to be joining ‘The Talk’ as a host. I am so excited for this new generation of such a long-standing establishment,” he told The Hollywood Reporter.
“To be a part of this diverse group is truly a dream and a new statement for ‘The Talk.’ In a world as divided as ours, I look forward to showing up as my fun and authentic self every day and advocating for conversation over confrontation.”
Gbajabiamila will host alongside Sheryl Underwood, Amanda Kloots and Jerry O’Connell. McConnell was hired Sharon Osbourne left in disgrace after defending Piers Morgan.
“It’s a new day in daytime for season 12 of ‘The Talk,’ and we are thrilled to welcome Akbar to the family. His engaging personality, openness and quick wit really impressed us when he appeared as a guest co-host last season,” executive producer and showrunner Heather Gray said to THR.