Julie Chen Moonves has announced her absence from the September 12 episode of “Big Brother” due to illness. The host, who has been with CBS’s competition show since its debut in July 2000 and has never missed an eviction episode, shared her situation with fans shortly before the live episode. Normally, she hosts every Thursday to interview the latest evicted houseguest, but a guest host will take her place for tonight’s show.
In an Instagram statement on Thursday, she explained, “Friday morning I woke up with a sore throat and went to see my good friend who is an ENT. That night he called to say I have Covid. Thankfully this is only the second time for me and it’s been very mild! No fever and just a sore throat.”
Chen Moonves continued, “Unfortunately, I am still testing positive as of this morning… despite feeling good, strong and my cough being gone, I must sit tonight’s Big Brother live eviction show out.”
Actor and talk show host Jerry O’Connell will step in for her during the episode. Chen Moonves expressed gratitude to O’Connell, saying, “Thank you to Jerry O’Connell for filling in for me.” She also lightheartedly added, “I hope Jerry fits into my dress, has a ball and tells the houseguests I miss them but will be watching from home.”
In closing her message, she referenced her nickname among fans, stating, “See? Chenbot is human after all!” and included a familiar sign-off: “Love one another and enjoy tonight’s show,” along with emojis.
Fans and friends expressed their well-wishes for her speedy recovery beneath the post, with various messages of support. O’Connell also recorded a message for the audience, stating, “Julie Chen Moonves is a little under the weather. We love her,” while assuring viewers that he would take care of the show.
O’Connell prepared for his role by holding up the episode’s script and acknowledging that the evicted houseguest will be the first jury member of Season 26.