Ben Mulroney stepping down from 'etalk' to make way for diverse voices

After 18 years covering the world of entertainment with etalk, Ben Mulroney has decided to step aside as the show’s anchor to create space for more diverse voices, effective immediately.On Monday’s edition of Your Morning, where he will remain as co-host, Ben shared that his wife’s recent actions have led to serious self-reflection and emphasized their commitment to continuing to educate themselves about anti-Black racism and their own blind spots.“My privilege has benefited me greatly,” he acknowledged. “And while I have certainly worked hard to build my career, I know that systemic racism and injustice helps people like me and harms those who aren’t like me, often in ways that are invisible to us. This needs to change.”The national dialogue sparked by Change & Action: Racism in Canada on June 13, a special dedicated to confronting the hard truths of systemic anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism in Canada, highlighted the need for more Black, Indigenous and People of Colour in media and inspired Ben to take action of his own.“I have decided to immediately step away from my role as an anchor at etalk to create a space for a new perspective and a new voice,” said Ben. “It is my hope that the new anchor is Black, Indigenous or a Person of Colour who can use this important platform to inspire, lead and make change.”Ben will continue to contribute to etalk on special assignments and will also develop and produce projects for Bell Media Studios.During his nearly two decades on the show, he’s undoubtedly helped to define what entertainment news looks like in Canada and the etalk team is supportive of his choice to make room for change.“We’re proud of Ben for his decision,” said Nanci MacLean, Vice-President, Bell Media Studios and President, Pinewood Toronto Studios. “Ben has played an integral role in the success of etalk, acting as a tireless champion of Canadian artists and productions.”MacLean added that the search for a new anchor on the show will begin in the next few weeks.Etalk is hosted by co-anchors Danielle Graham (on maternity leave) and Lainey Lui, senior correspondent Traci Melchor, reporters Chloe Wilde, Tyrone Edwards and Sonia Beeksma, and LA correspondent Liz Trinnear.