Kelly Ripa, the beloved co-host of Live with Kelly and Mark, has opened up about her future plans, hinting that she may be stepping away from her role after more than two decades on the air. As the show approaches its 25th anniversary with Ripa at the helm, the TV personality admitted that she doesn’t intend to work forever.
In an emotional conversation with Decider, Ripa, 55, reflected on her time hosting Live and shared her thoughts on what comes next. “Contrary to what everyone around here thinks, I don’t intend on working for the rest of my life,” she confessed. “But I think we’ll all make that decision when the time comes.”
She added that when the time does arrive for her to leave, she wants to ensure the show continues to thrive by finding the perfect co-host to take her place. “I think there’s a way to sort of get new people on board, test co-hosts, and get the audience used to other people,” she explained. “I think it’s important. I love this show too much to see it ever end with us.”
Despite the speculation about her future, Ripa remained confident that Live will continue to flourish in her absence. “This show will go on for as long as linear television exists,” she said. “There are too many talented people who deserve the chance to grow the audience the way they see fit.”
The Appeal of Live with Kelly and Mark and Its Enduring Success
Ripa, who hosts the show alongside her husband, Mark Consuelos, 54, believes Live has stood the test of time due to its relatability and irreverence. “We cover the issues that people have in their own homes,” she said. “We’re very irreverent. We cover the news, but we cover the absurdity of the news. Our job when we come on the air is to offer a lighter, less anxiety-inducing take on the headlines.”
She added that it’s the show’s unique blend of humor and lightheartedness that has allowed it to remain a fan favorite for so long. “I knew the show was special from watching it, but the work schedule was what really appealed to me initially,” she shared. “I could work full-time professionally while raising my kids in the same place, going to the same school, which was important to me.”
A Family-Centered Approach to Her Career
Ripa’s desire to maintain a balance between her career and family life has been a key factor in her success. As a mother of three, she appreciates the flexibility that hosting Live has provided, especially in raising her children, Michael, 28, Lola, 24, and Joaquin, 22, with Consuelos.
“Working here has been unique because I’ve been able to raise a family while working full-time. It’s different from most entertainers in this business,” she said. “I could raise my kids in the same place, with the same friends, going to the same school. That was a huge appeal.”
Ripa’s ability to juggle work and family has been one of the reasons why Live continues to connect with audiences. Her candid, down-to-earth approach has made her a beloved figure both on and off the screen.
Ripa’s Future: What Comes Next?
While Ripa hasn’t made any concrete decisions about her future, her comments have sparked speculation about what may be next for her. Could this be the beginning of the end of an era for Live with Kelly and Mark? Only time will tell, but Ripa seems confident that when she does step away, she’ll ensure the show’s continued success.
“I don’t plan to work forever,” she reiterated. “But when that time comes, we’ll all make that decision. And the show will go on.”
For now, Kelly Ripa remains at the helm of Live, continuing to entertain and inspire millions of viewers across the country.
