Kelly Clarkson isn't one to sugarcoat her opinions—and that includes how she feels about giving comments on her guests' appearances.
The Kelly Clarkson Show has become a staple of daytime TV, known for its mix of heartfelt moments, candid conversations, and Clarkson’s unfiltered charm.
Since its debut, the NBC talk show has won over audiences with segments that highlight real stories, spontaneous musical performances, and Kelly’s refreshingly honest approach to interviews.
Balancing celebrity guests with everyday heroes, the show’s appeal lies in Clarkson’s ability to be both relatable and bold—qualities that sometimes put her at odds with the more buttoned-up rules behind the scenes.
However, the singer-turned-talk show host revealed to fans during her May 10 concert at Hard Rock Live in Atlantic City that she's been called out behind the scenes at The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Via Billboard, she said: "Every time I go to an HR meeting, I'm like, 'How have I not been fired?'" Clarkson said on stage, getting laughs from the crowd. "They say you're not allowed to say someone looks attractive, and I say f**k that."
Clarkson, 43, used the moment to reflect on how weight, body image, and self-confidence are treated in professional settings. After a fan shouted that she looked “sexy,” she responded with total honesty—and a whole lot of fire.
"They were like, 'It might make people feel bad that they looked bad before.' I was fat before, so I'm saying I want you to say, 'Damn!'" she told the crowd. "Because some of those bitches are out here working, and we're trying, and I want every motherf**ker that passes me to go, 'Damn! Well done!'"
Her raw and funny comments touched on a broader issue: how celebrating change or confidence can be turned into something controversial. Clarkson made it clear that while she’s lost weight—something she’s attributed to a prescription medication—her self-worth didn’t hinge on the number on a scale.
"I felt very confident before," she said. "I felt fine both ways, but I'm just saying it's a lot more fun with clothes now. And I've been working on it."
Still, the American Idol alum isn’t going to stop welcoming positive feedback—especially from fans. "Thank you for saying I look sexy," she said with a smile. "I will not be calling HR."
With a mix of jokes and genuine frustration, Clarkson added, "I know HR is not a joke, but it is really funny some of the things they talk about, and we're like, 'Oh no. We would never.'"
Before wrapping up her set, Clarkson thanked the crowd for making it out to the show, especially since her talk show schedule rarely allows for live performances. "We love the talk show, but we usually don't get to do shows because of the schedule, so thank you so much. It's cool. It's only like two hours away from home in New York City."