Carrie Ann Inaba Officially Replaces Julie Chen on ‘The Talk’

On Wednesday, Carrie Ann Inaba made her debut as a permanent host on “The Talk.”

Carrie was joined by fellow co-hosts Sharon Osbourne, Sara Gilbert, Eve, and Sheryl Underwood for a celebratory toast. She shared, "I was back there by myself going, 'Oh, my God, it's real.' This is real! This is my chair! It's been, like, I'm just so excited to be here. It's been such an honor the last year coming in and guest co-hosting and learning so much from all of you. I mean, it's — I feel so fortunate to be able to sit at a table with such dynamic, strong, beautiful, unique women."

She added, "I've learned from you, and it's such a safe space, and you've given me a place to share some of my stuff, and you've helped me and healed me. I look forward to many more deep conversations."

In a statement, Carrie said, “Having the opportunity to sit at the table with Eve, Sara, Sharon, and Sheryl has been such an enriching experience, and I'm honored and looking forward to joining them daily. It's the authentic conversations and connection with the audience and the ladies that really drew me to 'The Talk.' I feel very fortunate to be a part of this show.”

Carrie has guest co-hosted the show several times over the past few years. She told People magazine, “It's been such an enriching experience. During the process, bonds were formed. It's really rare in this business to really get along with people. It reminds me of how it is with Len [Goodman] and Bruno [Taglioni] on 'Dancing with the Stars.'”

In September, Julie Chen gave a shout-out to Inaba during her exit video, saying, “You'd look awful good sitting in that chair, my Asian sister. I'm just saying.”

Of Julie's support, Inaba told People, “Julie has been nothing but supportive. When she heard I got the job, she sent me the most beautiful floral arrangement. She told me, 'I'm always in your corner.' She's amazing.”