Photo: Todd Williamson/E! Entertainment/NBCUniversal via Getty
The longtime host and red carpet correspondent, 39, announced his exit from the network on Monday, saying he is looking forward to exploring “new opportunities.”
“I don’t think it’s possible to sum up 16 amazing years. I’ve had the time of my life at E!,” Kennedy wrote onInstagram. “Most recently, I loved being the host ofIn the Room, but COVID made it impossible to capture interviews with celebrities in a more personal setting, so I’ve decided to pursue new opportunities.”
“I’m leaving with a grateful and full heart thinking about my experience, and the lifelong friendships I’ve made along the way,” he continued. “I have a slate of exciting projects that I’ve been working hard on and I can’t wait to share with you soon. Thank you for all your support over the years, love you guys!”
Kennedy has long been a staple at E!, having begun his career at the network in 2005 as a weekend anchor and reporter. He eventually became co-host ofE! NewsalongsideGiuliana Rancic. He also hostedLive from the Red Carpetshows at award ceremonies.
Jason Kennedy/Instagram.
Rancic, 46, said it was a “gift” to host alongside Kennedy these past 16 years.
“But even more than that…what a gift it’s been to have you as a best friend and little brother,” she commented on his Instagram post. “I’ve loved (and laughed) every second of hosting alongside you all these years. Can’t wait for all the beauty and excitement you have planned for us. In the meantime, call you for the fifth time today in ten? Forever family.”
The news comes after the network canceled its New York-based entertainment shows,E! News,Pop of the MorningandIn the Room, over the summer.
While he did not specify what upcoming projects he’s working on, Kennedy and his wifeLauren Scruggsrecently announced that they werebeginning their “IVF journey.“The couplewed in December 2014and have been open about their struggles with starting a family in the past.
“Well, it’s day 1 of our IVF journey. I’m very excited,” Kennedy said in a January Instagram video. “If you don’t know what IVF means, it means in vitro fertilization. It’s where they take the egg and the sperm and they do a little dance. Could have twins. Could havemorethan twins. Could have one. Might not even have one. It’s a whole thing.”
“But it’s going to be a good process no matter what, we’re committed to believing that,” he continued. “So thank you for being on this journey with us.”
Page Sixfirst reported the news of Kennedy’s departure.
source: people.com
