NEW YORK — It’s a milestone for “Live with Kelly and Mark” as Kelly Ripa celebrates 25 years as a co-host of the hit daytime talk show.
Ripa stepped into the role on Feb. 5, 2001 right by the side of Regis Philbin.
“On one respect it feels like I’ve always been here my entire life, but if I’m really doing the math in my head, it feels like I’ve been here three years,” Ripa said.
And that’s how long she initially thought she would last in the position.
Through the years, Ripa has spent an hour each weekday morning with other co-hosts. Her current partner in crime is her husband Mark Consuelos, who joined “Live” in 2023.
“He brought something special to the show that I don’t think we even knew we needed,” she said.
A very special show is marking the occasion, filled with one surprise after another, including a visit from someone near and dear to Ripa — now-retired executive Art Moore who made regular appearances on camera during his 36 years at “Live.”
“Having Art Moore be here was the biggest surprise and truly was the moment I almost completely lost it,” Ripa said.
Watching her three kids grow up on “Live” has also been a gift.
It’s been a whirlwind, from unforgettable Halloween extravaganzas to the show dropping anchor in places all over the globe with a team that’s like family.
Executive producer Michael Gelman helps to lead the way.
“I just get to benefit for the past 25 years from this already well-oiled machine,” Ripa said.
This special anniversary was about showing Ripa loads of love and all the accolades.
“I love interviewing people and getting to talk with other people about what they are doing, and so having an entire show be about what I’ve done, feels itchy,” Ripa said. “I don’t think the show is really about any of the hosts as much as it’s about the audience, the audience is what makes our show.”
For Ripa, it’s the secret sauce to a quarter century and counting.
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