Julie Chen Moonves Will Not Host Live Eviction Episode of ‘Big Brother’ for First Time in Show History

“Big Brother” Season 26 continues to make history on CBS — this time, as host Julie Chen Moonves misses her first-ever live eviction episode after testing positive for COVID.

Jerry O’Connell replaces either Kimo or Quinn on Thursday’s episode which will see either Kimo or Quinn become the first juror as Chelsie’s HoH reign comes to an end.

Chen shared the devastating news on social media hours before Thursday’s live episode, writing, “Friday morning I woke up with a sore throat and went to see my good friend who is an ENT. That night he called me to tell me I had COVID. Luckily this is only my second time and it’s very mild. No fever and just a sore throat.” Read her full statement below:

“Unfortunately, I still tested positive this morning… despite feeling great, strong and my cough having cleared up, I have to miss tonight’s live ‘Big Brother’ eviction show,” she continued. “Thanks to Jerry O’Connell for filling in for me. I hope Jerry fits into my dress, has a great time and tells the houseguests I miss them but will be watching from home.”

“See? Chenbot is human after all!” Chen joked, ending with his usual polite phrase: “Love one another and enjoy tonight’s show.”

O’Connell shared the news on his own social media, along with the announcement that Chen would call into Thursday’s episode of “The Talk” to get hosting tips ahead of the big episode.

Since its premiere in July 2000, Chen has never missed a single episode of “BB” that featured a live eviction. Even when she was pregnant during Season 11 and could potentially give birth at any moment, CBS brought in “Survivor” host Jeff Probst as a fill-in, but he was never needed.

“Big Brother” airs Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays on CBS. 24/7 live streams can be viewed on Paramount+ and Pluto TV.

The article Julie Chen Moonves Will Not Host Live Eviction Episode of ‘Big Brother’ for the First Time in Show History appeared first on TheWrap.