In a recent interview with Scott Fishman at TVInsider, Charly Caruso discussed her departure from WWE and her new full-time position with ESPN.
Below are a few of highlights from that interview:
On her speculation surrounding her departure:
“There is always going to be chatter. The contract was coming up. Instead of renewing, I’m moving on. Everyone is going to have their own opinions regardless. I never had any issues while I was at WWE. Nothing bad happened. As far as I’m concerned, I’m leaving on a positive note and beginning what I believe to be the next step in my career.”
Reaction from WWE on her departure:
“Once I stopped coming to WWE shows a few weeks ago, knowing this move was imminent, I had a lot of people reaching out. I couldn’t tell them yet until ESPN made the announcement. Now that it’s out, everyone has been so excited for me. The biggest thing I’ve heard within WWE is, “You deserve it.” People know how passionate I am about my career. They know it’s a great thing for me, as much as it sucks not being able to see everyone every week. I know my relationship with friends will not be severed. Nia Jax and I have already tentatively planned a girls trip.”
Her goals now that she is full-time at ESPN:
“I would love to see First Take, Her Take go from just a podcast to a show. I would love to host my own show. I don’t mean the Charly Show. If I’m designated to a specific show and am made the full-time host of that show, that would be incredible, because the more reps you get the better you get. That would also show trust on ESPN’s end. Whatever they want me to do, my goal for these next few years is make sure I say yes. If there is an opportunity, I want it. You never know what can turn into what. The answer is yes.”
Caruso (real-last name Arnolt) announced on her Instagram this past Monday that she is now working full-time for ESPN, and is officially done with WWE.
That there was speculation of backstage issues with Caruso showing up consistently late for interviews for WWE Raw, which then led to her being removed from Raw. Additional reports indicated Vince McMahon was informed about her constant tardiness and “took exception” to the situation.