Laverne Cox has officially hung up her mic and sashayed away from her hosting gig on E! Live from the Red Carpet. After three glitter-filled years of chatting up the stars at Hollywood’s fanciest shindigs, Laverne has decided it’s time to pass the baton—and probably the Spanx—to someone else.
At 52 (but clearly aging backward), the Orange Is the New Black superstar has graced more award shows than most people have Instagram followers. We’re talking Daytime Emmy wins, four Primetime Emmy nominations, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and a Critics Choice Award nomination. Basically, she’s got more hardware than a Home Depot aisle.
Laverne Drops the Mic in Style
Taking to Instagram like the queen she is, Laverne served up an emotional goodbye that was sweeter than a rom-com finale. “With an incredible amount of gratitude,” she began, “I’ve decided not to return as host of #LiveFromE’s red carpet coverage.” She even thanked NBCUniversal, E!, and Den of Thieves TV (yes, that’s a real production company and not the title of a Netflix true-crime series) for their support.
But let’s be real: Laverne’s Instagram post wasn’t just a farewell—it was basically an Oscar acceptance speech. She reflected on her privilege of chatting with “the world’s greatest artists” about their work and how they survive the Hollywood pressure cooker. Translation: she got to gossip with A-listers and call it a job. Goals.
What’s Next for Laverne?
Naturally, Laverne didn’t drop this bombshell without a little self-promo (because duh, she’s a pro). She teased her next big thing—a comedy series called Clean Slate, premiering on Amazon Prime February 6. “I hope you’ll all continue to go with me on my evolving journey,” she wrote. We will, Laverne. We definitely will. (Also, who’s borrowing our Prime login?)
The Legacy of Laverne on the Red Carpet
From Oscars to Emmys, Laverne brought style, sass, and star power to the red carpet like no other. Whether she was hyping up a first-time nominee or prying a little tea from a veteran, she made every awkward celeb encounter look effortless. And now, we’re left wondering—who’s bold enough to fill those fabulous heels?
Wherever Laverne’s headed next, one thing is clear: she’s just getting started. And if Clean Slate is even half as iconic as her red carpet reign, we’re in for a treat. Pass the popcorn and let’s binge!