NBCUniversal Exits First-Run Syndication, Ending ‘Access Hollywood,’ ‘Steve Wilkos’ and ‘Karamo’
NBCUniversal has announced a significant shift in its television strategy, discontinuing production for first-run syndicated programming. This decision brings an end to long-running shows including “Access Hollywood,” “Access Hollywood Live,” “Karamo,” and “The Steve Wilkos Show,” signaling a broader industry trend away from the traditional syndication model.
The End of an Era for Syndicated Programming
The move reflects the challenges facing first-run syndication in an increasingly fragmented media landscape dominated by streaming services and digital platforms like YouTube. According to NBCUniversal, current marketplace conditions no longer support the traditional syndication model. Variety first reported the news on March 13, 2026.
Show Status and Production Timelines
“Access Hollywood,” which debuted in 1996, will continue to produce original episodes through September 2026. The show currently features hosts Mario Lopez, Kit Hoover, Scott Evans, and Zuri Hall. Production on “Karamo,” hosted by Karamo Brown, and “The Steve Wilkos Show,” hosted by Steve Wilkos, has already concluded, with existing episodes airing through the summer of 2026.
Industry-Wide Shifts and Contributing Factors
This decision follows NBCUniversal’s earlier announcement that “The Kelly Clarkson Show” would conclude after seven seasons. The broader trend highlights the financial and competitive pressures facing talk shows, including rising production costs and increased competition from video podcasts, which offer similar content at a lower price point. The Wrap notes that local stations are increasingly prioritizing community programming, local and national news, and off-network franchises.
Impact on NBCUniversal and Production Facilities
NBCUniversal plans to vacate its Stamford Studios facility in Stamford, Connecticut, where “Karamo” and “The Steve Wilkos Show” were produced. The company will continue to distribute its existing program library, including titles such as “Dateline,” “Law & Order,” “Chicago PD,” “Maury,” “Jerry Springer,” and both “Steve Wilkos” and “Karamo.”
A Changing Landscape for Daytime Television
Frances Berwick, Chairman of Bravo and Peacock unscripted, stated that NBCUniversal is adjusting its first-run syndication division to better align with the programming preferences of local stations. Even as “Access Hollywood” marked a significant presence in entertainment journalism for nearly 30 years, other entertainment news programs like CBS’ “Entertainment Tonight” and “Inside Edition” remain in production.
‘The Steve Wilkos Show’ Recent Renewal
Notably, just months prior to the cancellation announcement, “The Steve Wilkos Show” was renewed for a 19th season in national syndication in May 2025. The Futon Critic reported at the time that the show averaged 664,000 viewers and was the second-longest-running syndicated daytime talk show in production.