Fans of Live! Kelly and Mark noticed a change this week. Kelly Ripa has been away from the famous daytime talk program, leaving many fans wondering where she is and when she will return. Her absence comes after co-host Mark Consuelos took a week off as well. This host cycle has become a staple of the show, particularly during the summer.
Kelly Ripa has been a regular on the show since 2001, initially alongside Regis Philbin, then Michael Strahan, and most recently Ryan Seacrest. Her recent break is part of her yearly summer vacation.
Why is Kelly Ripa not on Live! with Kelly and Mark?
Kelly Ripa is taking a customary summer break from Live! With Kelly and Mark. Her absence started on Monday, August 4. This planned time off allows her to take a break from her daily hosting duties.
Ripa's husband and co-host, Mark Consuelos, also recently took a week off from the show to work on a television project in LA. This has prompted some viewers to wonder if the couple is taking turns away from the desk.
Mark Consuelos misses his other half. Kelly Ripa did not appear on ABC's Live! during the first week of August. The co-host of Kelly and Mark's talk program, who has been with the series since 2001, is on summer vacation.
One fan, writing on social media, inquired, "Where is Kelly? First Mark, now Kelly. Are Kelly and Mark taking turns being off?" This sentiment is a widespread observation of spectators. [Quote from Good Housekeeping].
Ripa's present sabbatical is a common occurrence every summer. She was also not there in August 2024 to get her Disney Legend award at the D23 event in Anaheim, California.
When Will Kelly Ripa Return to Live!?
While the show has not officially confirmed Kelly Ripa's return date, People.com reports that she will return to Live! On Monday, August 11, we will be with Kelly and Mark. This means her summer vacation will last one week.
People also stated that Ripa would return to Live on Monday, August 11. (The show hasn't verified Ripa's official comeback date.)
Fans are waiting for a definite announcement from the show, but for now, the August 11 date is largely assumed.
Who Are Kelly Ripa's Guest Hosts?
During Kelly Ripa's absence, Mark Consuelos has been joined by a rotating cast of guest co-hosts. This method ensures that the show maintains its daily transmission with a fresh dynamic.
Jackie Tohn Steps In.
Jackie Tohn, an actress and comedian, was the first guest co-host of the week, arriving on Monday, August 4. This episode was prerecorded. Tohn shared her pleasure on Instagram, describing it as "one of the best days" of her life. Mark Consuelos even revealed that he and Kelly Ripa had previously considered Tohn being an excellent fill-in.
Jenna Dewan joins Mark Consuelos.
On Tuesday, August 5, actress Jenna Dewan joined Mark Consuelos at the host desk. Dewan characterized it as "the most fun day."
Rita Ora’s Turn at the Desk
Rita Ora, a singer and actress, cohosted the show on Wednesday, August 6. The show's official website announced her appearance.
Other guest hosts are likely to fill in for Ripa's remaining days off.
Kelly Ripa's Summer Vacation Plans and Other Projects.
Kelly Ripa's particular vacation plans are unknown, but she is taking a planned summer break. She and Mark Consuelos have previously stated that their unique hobbies often lead to separate activities on their days off. Kelly adores Mahjong, whilst Mark prefers golf. [Quote from E! Online]
In addition to her vacation, Ripa has been working on other projects. She hosts the podcast Let's Talk Off Camera, where she talks about a variety of issues with friends and specialists. In a July podcast episode, Ripa discussed retirement with Oprah Winfrey.
I'm always thinking about retiring. It is my favorite topic to discuss.
Ripa has remarked that she considers retirement "with great interest." However, she added that she has no plans to leave the show anytime soon, particularly because she enjoys working with Mark.
Running with the Wolves Docuseries
Ripa and Consuelos also co-produced the ESPN documentary series Running With the Wolves, which premiered on July 29. The four-part series chronicles their experiences as co-owners of the Italian soccer team Campobasso FC. This initiative has kept them occupied outside of their Live! responsibilities.
The Disney Legend Award
Kelly Ripa was honored as a Disney Legend at the D23 event last August 2024. This award celebrates those who have had a major impact on The Walt Disney Company. Ryan Seacrest presented Ripa with the honor, noting her long career at ABC, which is owned by Disney.
Kelly Ripa's Previous Absences:
Kelly Ripa has been with the show since 2001, when she first joined Regis Philbin. Throughout the years, the show has seen a number of co-hosts fill in for her. Following Regis Philbin's retirement, Ripa hosted Live with Kelly solo, with a rotating cast of guest hosts. Michael Strahan arrived in 2012, followed by Ryan Seacrest in 2017. Mark Consuelos became her permanent co-host in 2023.
Her absences have always been planned, allowing her to balance personal and professional obligations. During a co-host's absence, Live! normally has Mark Consuelos as the show's host and a celebrity guest. This guarantees a steady transmission for viewers.
Fan Reactions: What Viewers Say
Fans have spoken out on social media regarding Kelly Ripa's current absence and the guest hosts. Some spectators applauded Jackie Tohn's performance, pointing out her enthusiasm and natural hosting style. Others thought she moved too fast. The dynamic of Mark Consuelos hosting with varied personalities is a topic of discussion among the show's devoted viewers.
Kelly Ripa appears to be enjoying her usual summer sabbatical from the long-running ABC talk program, which has resulted in her recent absence.
The overwhelming consensus is that Ripa is taking a well-deserved break, which is usual for the long-time host.
Source: E! Online, The Independent, TV Insider, Us Weekly, and Good Housekeeping.