Four-time Daytime Emmy-winning journalist Nischelle Renee Turner had been named by Entertainment Tonight” ‘s next co-host.
The 46 year old set to host the show alongside Kevin Frazier, also black, makes history as the first Black woman to anchor the program in its 40-season-long history. It marks the first time CBS’ “ET” will be anchored by two Black people.
Turner, a longtime contributor for CNN will be taking on multiple roles as co-host: She will also be hosting Secret Celebrity Renovation, a new show set to premiere in the summer on CBS.
Previously she was also former entertainment correspondent for HLN’s Showbiz Tonight and an entertainment correspondent for KNBC in Los Angeles.
An excited Turner celebrated the gig by paying homage to other inspiring Black women and women of color who have worked in the journalism and entertainment industries.
“My gratitude is deep and my commitment to representing is strong,” she wrote in the caption of an Instagram post.
She also referenced her historic promotion in a statement, saying she has reflected on the “legacy of Black women in this business who have paved the way for me.”
The new co-host talked to Variety about her history-making moment.
“Make no mistake about it: I believe and have always believed that I was the best person for the job, but it was never lost on me that it was also bigger than just me,” she said. “I would be representing an underserved group of people who are finally getting a moment in the spotlight — and a well-deserved moment.”
“There was always a thought in the back of my head, ‘Is the audience in America ready for two Black hosts up there together?’ and the answer that America gave us was ‘Yes,’ Turner said.
“ET” executive producer Erin Johnson said in a statement that Turner can “do it all.”
“She can go from a heartfelt conversation with Oscar winner Viola Davis about the impact of Cicely Tyson to singing karaoke on a balcony with Jimmy Fallon,” Johnson said. “She is warm, thoughtful, and full of energy.”
