After three years of hosting E!‘s red carpet coverage, Laverne Cox announces her departure to focus on new acting opportunities, including her lead role in the comedy series ‘Clean Slate’.
In early 2025, Laverne Cox officially stepped down from her role as the host of E!‘s red carpet coverage after a three-year tenure. This decision marks a significant shift in her career, as she highlights her pursuit of new opportunities in acting and entertainment.
During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter at the NAACP Image Awards on Saturday, Cox elaborated on her choice to leave the red carpet hosting role. She pointed to her recent lead in the comedy series Clean Slate, released this year on Prime Video, as well as several other upcoming acting projects that she is enthusiastic about. “I’ve done so much press for Clean Slate that I wouldn’t have been able to do it if I was on the red carpet,” she explained.
Reflecting on her experience preparing for the Image Awards, Cox shared her relief at not having the added pressure of red carpet responsibilities. “This is the first time I’ve been getting ready for a major award show red carpet, not covered with like a hundred note cards, thinking of talking points and how to pronounce people’s names and the thing that I love about that movie,” she remarked.
Cox described her preparation as a joyful process, characterized by listening to music and enjoying the moment. “I was just getting ready to the Clean Slate theme song sung by Tony Award-winner Alex Newell and getting my life listening to Lady Gaga, and then Tay [Rivera] came in and he was into Diana Ross ‘Missing you.’ I was just living my life,” she stated. Emphasizing the positive change in her experience, she concluded, “Life is lovely on the other side.”
In her Instagram announcement made in January, Cox expressed gratitude for her time on the red carpet, sharing a highlight reel of her interviews. She reflected on the privilege of discussing the work and pressures of some of the world’s greatest artists, stating her excitement to continue growing and evolving in her career. “I hope you’ll all continue to go with me on my evolving journey,” she added.
Cox, known for her acclaimed role in Orange is the New Black, where she received four Emmy nominations, stepped in to host the Live From E! franchise after Giuliana Rancic. As she transitions away from this high-profile role, her focus is now directed toward her acting career and the creative projects that lie ahead. Brande Victorian contributed to this report.
Source: Noah Wire Services
