NBCUniversal is discontinuing “Access Hollywood” after nearly 30 years, part of a larger strategy to streamline its syndicated programming. Frances Barwick, an executive at NBCUniversal, mentioned in a statement that the company is realigning its first-run syndication to better fit local stations’ programming preferences.
While the production of new first-run content is ending, NBCUniversal will continue distributing its existing program library and other off-network titles, showcasing how proud they are of the past contributions these shows have made to entertainment.
The show featured hosts Mario Lopez, Kit Hoover, Scott Evans, and Zuri Hall over the years.
“Access Hollywood,” which debuted in 1996, has seen various notable anchors and correspondents, such as Pat O’Brien, Nancy O’Dell, Billy Bush, Jeff Probst, Shauna Robinson, Maria Menounos, and Natalie Morales.
Although it primarily focused on entertainment news and gossip, the show gained significant attention during the 2016 presidential campaign.
The infamous “Access Hollywood” tape, released by the Washington Post in October 2016, showed a lewd conversation between Donald Trump and Billy Bush. In it, Trump made controversial remarks about women, leading to widespread backlash and discussions within the Republican Party.
This conversation, often dismissed by Trump as mere “locker room talk,” prompted calls for him to step down from the race, though he remained a candidate and eventually won against Hillary Clinton. Notably, Bush lost his position on “Today” due to the fallout from the tape.
Besides “Access Hollywood,” NBCUniversal is also canceling shows such as “Karamo” and “The Steve Wilkos Show.” This decision follows the announcement that “The Kelly Clarkson Show” will also be concluding later this year.
