Kelly Ripa was conspicuously absent on the November 29 episode of Live With Kelly and Mark. The usually upbeat co-host was notably absent this morning, making it the second occasion she has missed an episode within the week. Once more, the morning show’s announcer, Déjà Vu, filled in for Ripa at the co-host desk alongside Mark Consuelos. So, that naturally leads to queries about her absence.
Kelly’s History In The Show
The actress became a part of Live in 2001, taking over from Kathie Lee Gifford, and she has remained a constant presence on viewers’ TV screens ever since. Kelly Ripa’s past co-hosts include Regis Philbin, Michael Strahan, and Ryan Seacrest. Her husband, Mark, officially joined her on the show as Seacrest’s replacement in April 2023, although he had previously served as a guest co-host alongside her on occasion.
Her Importance In The Show
Following Consuelos’ addition to the show, viewership has increased, and Deadline reported that the couple’s premiere week became Live’s most-watched week in nearly three years. Unfortunately, with Ripa absent, fans were deprived of the usual banter between their favourite couple.
Why Was She Absent From The Show?
Kelly was absent from Live on both Wednesday and Friday. On Wednesday, Mark revealed that her absence was due to health issues. Deja filled in for Kelly on both occasions. At the show’s start, fans noticed Kelly’s absence and were curious about where she was. Recently, Mark revealed that it was noticeable that she was losing her voice a little bit. When Deja asked how Kelly was feeling, Mark informed the fill-in host that she would feel better and was just resting a little bit.
She asked Mark whether he, like her, puts Kelly in the basement when she’s sick. In jest, he responded that he was the sole occupant relegated to the basement. Mark concluded that she would feel better soon before they shifted topics.
Finally, She Is Back!
Viewers of Live with Kelly and Mark were delighted to see Kelly Ripa return to the show this morning. After expressing gratitude to Live’s announcer, Déjà Vu, for stepping in as co-host alongside Mark Consuelos twice last week, Ripa exclaimed that, while she was out sick, she “had the opportunity to watch the show” that she typically contributes to.
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