Ryan Seacrest announced he is leaving Live with Kelly and Ryan. But fear not, he will still be part of the ABC Entertainment family and continue to host American Idol and Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest, while returning to the west coast.
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So who is replacing Seacrest? None other than Ripa’s husband! In his place, Ripa, who has co-hosted the show since 2001, will be joined by her husband, actor Mark Consuelos. The show is set to be rebranded as Live with Kelly and Mark. Seacrest’s transition will take place this spring as he gears up for American Idol’s live shows in Los Angeles.
Ryan Seacrest Makes An Announcement
“Working alongside Kelly over the past six years has been a dream job and one of the highlights of my career. 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,” Seacrest stated. “I also want to thank Michael Gelman 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.”
“I’m so grateful to have spent the last six years beside my dear friend of too many decades to count and will miss starting my days with Ryan,” Ripa stated. “Ryan’s energy, passion and love for entertainment is one-of-a-kind.”
“Goodbyes are never easy, but we look forward to welcoming Ryan back regularly with open arms. As a fan-favorite guest host for years, Mark is no stranger to the ‘Live’ family. Having him join the show is so special for us and we’re sure that viewers will feel the same,” Michael Gelman, executive producer of Live with Kelly and Ryan stated.
Despite initially signing on for a three-year contract, Seacrest extended his stay for six seasons. The show has since been ranked as the top daytime talk show for 56 consecutive weeks among Women 25-54. This season, it has taken the top spot as the No. 1 daytime talk show – network or syndicated – in terms of Households, Total Viewers, and Women 25-54.