After more than two decades at Warner Bros. Unscripted Television/Telepictures, Mary Connelly has announced her departure as executive producer and co-showrunner of The Jennifer Hudson Show. In an emotional announcement to the show’s staff and crew, Connelly stated that she felt it was the right time to leave as the show has found its footing and has been renewed for a third season.
Mary Connelly has been a staple in daytime television, having worked on shows such as The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Late Night with David Letterman, and The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn. Her departure from The Jennifer Hudson Show marks the end of an era at Warner Bros. where she has had an overall deal.
Before making the decision to leave, Mary Connelly consulted with The Jennifer Hudson Show host and executive producer, Jennifer Hudson, as well as the program’s other executive producers. She thanked them for their friendship and support throughout her time with the show.
Despite Connelly’s departure, The Jennifer Hudson Show will continue under the leadership of Andy Lassner and Corey Palent, who will serve as executive producers and co-showrunners for Season 3. Connelly, Lassner, and Palent all joined the show following the end of The Ellen DeGeneres Show, where Connelly was an executive producer from its inception in 2003.
Mary Connelly’s departure from The Jennifer Hudson Show will allow her to pursue new projects outside of Warner Bros. Unscripted Television/Telepictures. After starting her career as a page at NBC 40 years ago, Connelly has worked on a variety of successful television shows and is sure to find success in her future endeavors.