'The Talk' fans divided as Jerry O'Connell rips his shirt off after breaking down over show's end

After accepting award, Jerry O'Connell humorously thanked his tanning salon, waxer, and his personal trainer, causing fits of laughter from the crowd
PUBLISHED DEC 25, 2024
Jerry O'Connell embraced award for 'Best Performance by a Topless Host' (The Talk/YouTube)
Jerry O'Connell embraced award for 'Best Performance by a Topless Host' (The Talk/YouTube)

STUDIO CITY, CALIFORNIA: After 15 years on the air, CBS' beloved daytime series 'The Talk' came to an unforgettable end last week, leaving fans buzzing online. The final episode featured a jaw-dropping moment when Jerry O'Connell went shirtless while accepting the 'Best Performance by a Topless Host' award. 

Hosted by Howie Mandel, who made a special appearance to present 'The Talkies' and hand out awards to each host, the episode was packed with surprises. Co-hosts Akbar Gbajabiamila, Amanda Kloots, Natalie Morales, and Sheryl Underwood joined the memorable farewell, marking the end of an era for the long-running show.

Jerry O'Connell accepts award for 'Best Performance by a Topless Host'

(@CBS/screengrab)
Jerry O'Connell embraced his award for 'Best Performance By a Topless Host' by shedding his red and green plaid jacket (The Talk/YouTube)

Jerry O'Connell embraced his award for 'Best Performance By a Topless Host' by shedding his red and green plaid jacket along with his black shirt, much to the delight of the audience.

After accepting the award, O'Connell humorously thanked his tanning salon, his waxer, and his personal trainer, causing the crowd to erupt in applause, laughter, and cheers.

As he walked toward Howie Mandel, he attempted to embrace him but Mandel playfully recoiled, shouting "No, don’t touch me!" as O'Connell tried to lift him, adding to the comedic moment.

The 50-year-old ‘Stand By Me’ star has been open about his emotions surrounding the end of the long-running talk show. He was met with a lengthy standing ovation from the studio audience, which quickly brought him to tears.

O'Connell joked, before delivering heartfelt tributes to his TV family, "I just wanted to know why everyone's being so nice today."

(The Talk/YouTube)
Jerry O' Connell walked towards Howie Mandel and he attempted to embrace him but Mandel playfully recoiled, shouting 'No, don’t touch me' (The Talk/YouTube)

He reflected on his time at the show, saying, "When I came here to 'The Talk', and I'm so grateful to everyone along the way who let me be here, I had been a substitute teacher on daytime talk shows," according to Daily Mail.

He added, "I thought I knew everything, and I got here, and I really want to thank the audience for really teaching me … not only the audience at home but the audience here, who taught me what it takes." He continued, "I hope we gave you just a little respite from some of the world's problems. We love each other here. I think we've shared that respect and joy every day, and we hope you felt it as well."

As the episode concluded, the entire crew joined the hosts on stage for a champagne toast with the audience, marking a heartfelt and memorable farewell.

(The Talk/YouTube)
Jerry O'Connell embraced award for 'Best Performance by a Topless Host' (The Talk/YouTube)

Fans of ‘The Talk’ spark online debate as Jerry O'Connell goes shirtless

After Jerry O'Connell went shirtless while accepting the award during the final episode of 'The Talk', netizens left no time in sharing their opinion.

One user said, “Jerry is a strange looking dude.” Another commented, “Keep it on Jerry!”

One unimpressed fan said, “Makes him even more Unattractive...Ugh!”

A social media user added, “Hope he finds another gig, as so fun and funny, I know we would not have tuned in if not for him.”

Another user expressed, “Omg... NO... Seriously.  Doesn't he own a mirror?   Horrible.”

One user questioned, “Not Jerry but the other good-looking guy would make a good James Bond. Funny they are looking for one. Amazon?”

A user said, “He's beautiful. Just saying my opinion.”

This article contains remarks made on the internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online

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