Hot Bench Shake-Up: Find Out Which Judge Is Set to Exit Ahead of Season 12
Hot Bench is saying goodbye to its longest-serving judge, Michael Corriero, as he hangs up his gavel and robe at the end of Season 11.
“At the beginning of this past year, after almost nine years on Hot Bench, I made it clear to everyone that this would be my final season,” Corriero said in a statement to Deadline. “It was time to pass the torch or, should I say, the gavel. I will miss the challenge, my beloved colleagues and the entire Hot Bench team.”
More from TVLine
<em>Beyond the Gates</em>: CBS’ New Daytime Soap Finally Sets 2025 Premiere Date — See Full Cast
Francisco San Martin, of Days of Our Lives and Jane the Virgin, Dead at 39
Hot Bench was previously renewed through Season 12, which is set to premiere this fall. Judges Rachel Juarez and Yodit Tewolde, who joined the series in Season 9, are confirmed to return; Corriero’s replacement will be named at a later date.
The syndicated courtroom show, which hails from Judith Sheindlin (Judge Judy), premiered in 2014. At the time, the panel consisted of Corriero’s predecessor, Larry Bakman, and Tanya Acker and Patricia DiMango (who left after Season 8). The series will celebrate its 2,000th episode on Thursday, Jan. 23.
“As we celebrate Hot Bench reaching its milestone 2,000th episode this week, we’re also taking a moment to honor Judge Michael Corriero, who has been a cornerstone of the show’s success,” executive producer David Theodosopoulos tells TVLine. “His expertise, honor, and integrity have elevated every case he’s presided over. While his departure will undoubtedly be felt, we are grateful for the impact he’s leaving on Hot Bench. He has been more than just a colleague; he is a friend whom I will miss seeing on the bench.”
Are you sad to see Judge Michael Corriero exit Hot Bench? Will you continue to watch following his departure? Share your thoughts in a comment below.
Daytime TV’s Big Moves
Best of TVLine
Sign up for TVLine's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.