Reshuffle in Live with Kelly and Ryan, Mark arrives, Ryan leaves
Ryan Seacrest announced his departure from “Live with Kelly and Ryan” on Thursday’s episode.
Seacrest, 48, said he and co-host Kelly Ripa had discussed it “We’ve been talking about it for a long time. It was a difficult decision.” He described his departure from the ABC morning talk show, which he joined in 2017, as “bittersweet” news.
“You are a rare find. You are one of my closest companions, “Ripa stated. “The best part about this whole thing is that you’ve gone from being a friend to a family member.”
Seacrest stated that he will focus on hosting the live episodes of “American Idol” season 21 in Los Angeles this spring and will return to guest host with Ripa in the fall.
Ripa also announced Thursday that her husband, Mark Consuelos, will replace Seacrest as her new co-host.
“We are so aware of the importance of continuity and consistency, as well as the familial vibe that we all have here,” Ripa explained.
Ripa went on to say that she and Seacrest are calling her husband’s appearance on the show “the nation’s weirdest social experiment.”
Consuelos was dubbed “one of my favorite people” by Seacrest.
Seacrest posted a lengthy statement on Instagram about leaving “Live,” saying he is “going to miss my work wife and the laughter we share.”
“One of the best parts of the job is being able to share a cup of coffee with our viewers every day,” he added.
Ripa also joked on Instagram that she and Consuelos are entering “the contractual obligation phase of our relationship.”
“I am proud of you and will always be in your corner,” she told Seacrest.
