James Lipton Stepping Down After "a Legendary Run" on Inside the Actors Studio
The series' host will "pass the baton" after nearly 25 years.
Inside the Actors Studio began its epic run nearly 25 years ago on Bravo when it launched with host James Lipton posing professional questions at some of Hollywood's top A-listers, but the series is ready to open a new chapter. According to Variety, beginning in the fall 2019, the show will change networks with a revolving list of hosts sitting in the chair.
“Inside the Actors Studio was Bravo’s first original series, getting 19 Emmy nominations and an Emmy win over the last 24 years, and it will always be a part our family. We’ve had a legendary run with Jim and we’ve all enjoyed his unique interview style, comprehensive research, intimate conversations and his impact on pop culture. With Jim at the helm, the series became a must stop for A-List Hollywood and creative talent," a rep for Bravo said in a statement to The Daily Dish. "Now that there will be a new host, we felt it was time to close this chapter and pass the baton.”
James reflected on the Emmy-winning series, which kicked off in 1994 with Paul Newman as its first-ever guest, in a statement to Variety: “It’s very gratifying to see the legacy of Inside The Actors Studio being carried forward for a new generation to appreciate and enjoy. I made a vow early on that we would not deal in gossip — only in craft, and Ovation, as a network dedicated to the arts, will continue that tradition with the next seasons of the series. I’m excited to see the new hosts engage with the guests and students and continue to entertain viewers in the U.S. and around the world.”
Check out a highlight from a recent episode featuring Ted Danson, below.
