Kelly Ripa reacts as Ryan Seacrest quits morning show Live with Kelly and Ryan on air
‘I know how exhausting it is,’ Seacrest’s co-host said
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Kelly Ripa has reacted to Ryan Seacrest’s decision to quit their show live on air.
On Thursday (16 February), Seacrest announced plans to leave Live with Kelly and Ryan.
The presenter said that he had discussed the move with Ripa, calling it a “tough” and “bittersweet” choice.
Seacrest announced the news while sat next to Ripa, who held his arm as she paid tribute to her co-host.
“The greatest part of htis entire expeirence is you have gone from being a friend to a family member,” Ripa said, adding: “You are family here, we love you – we’re so proud of you.”
She continued: “I cheer you on endlessly. I know how much of a sacrifice it’s been, I know how exhausting it is going back and forth – I fully understand your decision making.”
Seacrest splits his time in between New York, where the syndicated morning show is filmed, and Los Angeles, where he records American Idol.
Ripa also revealed that Seacrest, who signed on as co-host in 2017, “was supposed to be here for three years”. He will leave the show in the spring after six years.
“I can’t thank you enough,” she said. After growing emotional, Seacrest said: “I’m getting emotional. I promised Kelly I would not cry.”
Seacrest will return to guest host, but he has not made it clear how often this will occur. After he announced his decision, Ripa revealed that her husband, actor Mark Consuelos, will be his replacement.
After the episode’s broadcast, Seacrest said in a statement on Instagram: “Working alongside Kelly over the past six years has been a dream job and one of the highlights of my career.
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days
New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days
New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled
“She has been an amazing partner, friend, and confidant, and although we will always be a part of each other’s lives, I will miss our mornings together.”
He continued: “I also want to thank Michael Gelman [executive producer] and the entire staff and crew – we’ve made memories to last a lifetime, met some of the most incredible people and had the warmest welcome into the homes of so many viewers across America.
“It’s been a memorable ride and now I’m excited to pass the baton to Kelly’s ‘real’ husband, Mark.”
Seacrest will remains as host of talent show American Idol, and will also continue to present Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest each 31 December.
Seacrest joined Live two years after Michael Strahan abruptly left the series.
Ripa was joined by a selection of guets hosts, and would often host the show solo, until Seacrest signed on.
Midway through Seacrest’s time on Live, the hosts were forced to broadcast remotely from their homes due to the pandemic.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments