What Happened to Julie Chen Moonves? Jerry O’Connell Replacement Explained

What Happened to Julie Chen Moonves? Jerry O’Connell Replacement Explained

As a long-time Big Brother enthusiast with over two decades of watching Julie Chen Moonves host the show, it’s always been a comforting constant to see her gracing our screens during live eviction episodes. However, I have to say, Jerry O’Connell has done an admirable job filling in for Julie while she battles COVID-19. Though I must admit, I didn’t quite expect him to pull out a marker and start drawing clues for Pictionary mid-show!


Viewers of the show Big Brother could find themselves pondering the absence of host Julie Chen Moonves during the September 12 episode, and wondering why she was replaced by Jerry O’Connell. This change comes as a surprise since Julie has hosted every live eviction episode throughout all seasons of Big Brother without fail. However, there is a valid explanation for her absence in this particular episode. It’s also worth noting that some viewers might not be familiar with Jerry O’Connell and could be curious about when Julie may return to Big Brother Season 26.

Why has Jerry O’Connell replaced Julie Chen Moonves on Big Brother?

It’s regrettable that Julie Chen Moonves has had to step down from hosting Big Brother temporarily, as she has contracted COVID-19 and is currently unwell. However, her condition appears to be “relatively mild,” according to a statement she issued on X. Jerry O’Connell will be filling in for her during this time.

On Friday morning, Chen awoke feeling unwell with a tender throat. Her medical friend, who specializes in ears, nose, and throat (ENT), diagnosed her with COVID-19. This is the second time she has had this virus, but fortunately, her symptoms are only mild enough to avoid developing a fever.

Given that she’s still testing positive, she won’t be able to attend the live eviction show on September 12. Jerry O’Connell has kindly stepped in at short notice to fill her spot. She hopes to make a swift recovery and return for the rest of the season soon.

Who is Jerry O’Connell?

Jerry O’Connell, aged 53, is an actor at present, serving as a co-host for The Talk on CBS, and also functions as the host for a broadcasted edition of the guessing game show, Pictionary.

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O’Connell is well-known for various acting roles including Quinn Mallory in the Sliders television show, Vern Tessio in Stand By Me (1996), Frank Cushman in Jerry Maguire (1996), and Detective Woody Hoyt on Crossing Jordan. He also voiced Captain Marvel in the 2010 superhero film Superman/Shazam!: The Return of Black Adam.

In 2023 and 2024, he received nominations for both Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series at the Canadian Screen Awards for his work on Carter, as well as Outstanding Daytime Talk Series Host alongside his co-hosts for their show.

However, as reported by Deadline, The Talk will be canceled by December of this year.

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2024-09-13 00:10