Ryan Seacrest Exits ‘Live With Kelly,‘ Replacement Confirmed

Ryan Seacrest is officially leaving Live with Kelly and Ryan after six years on the show. He broke the news this morning during the broadcast shocking fans and viewers. So, why is he departing the morning talk show and who will be taking his place? Read on for more details.

Ryan Seacrest Exits Live With Kelly, Replacement Confirmed

It has been confirmed that Ryan Seacrest will be exiting Live with Kelly and Ryan. The host joined the show in 2017, one year after Michael Strahan left the co-host seat. According to People, his reason for leaving is simple. He will be moving back to the west coast for his hosting duties on American Idol. Seacrest has been with AI since its inception despite its revolving door of judges. Admittedly, this choice was both “bittersweet” and a “tough, tough” one.

Additionally, he will miss his co-host, Kelly Ripa. “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 shared in a statement.”I also want to thank [executive producer] 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.”

So, who will be replacing him? Ryan Seacrest shared that Kelly’s permanent co-host will be her husband, Mark Consuelos. He has often filled in when her other co-hosts were out or away. Fans love their genuine connection so this should be a seamless transition. Ryan Seacrest made the big reveal in his statement as to who the co-host would be. “It’s been a memorable ride and now I’m excited to pass the baton to Kelly’s ‘real’ husband, Mark.”

When Does It All Change?

Ryan Seacrest did not share exactly when this change would take place. However, he said the spring so it could be as soon as next month. The show will now be called Live with Kelly and Mark. Yet, the show is always excited and open to bringing Ryan back when the opportunity presents itself. They actually got lucky with him as he was supposed to only be on the show for three years. Then, he stayed for six so this was a jackpot situation. Hopefully, in his downtime, Seacrest will fill in, even if it is with Mark by his side.

Were you shocked by this news? Plus, are you happy with Ryan’s replacement? Let us know in the comments below.