Kelly Ripa Cheats On Husband, Mark, With Erik Estrada?

Did Kelly Ripa cheat on her husband Mark Consuelos with heartthrob Erik Estrada?

On a new episode of her game show, Kelly admitted to some strong feelings for a man. But this man is not her husband, Mark Consuelos. The admission comes amid a tense absence from Live with Kelly and Mark that has left Mark holding the bag alone in the studio. Read on to find out what Kelly had to say about her feelings.

Kelly Absent After Saying She Was ‘Never Coming Back’

Fans of Kelly Ripa are starting to get a little worried. On Monday, Kelly and her husband Mark Consuelos opened the show as they always do. But then, Kelly told the audience, “Listen, just so you know, I probably won’t be here tomorrow or forever.” Her reason, however, was a joke. Kelly said that she planned to win the $1 billion Powerball, and would retire to the South of France.

Mark laughed at her jest, and the audience cheered her on. Kelly returned to the studio on Tuesday and Wednesday. Wednesday night, a Powerball winner was drawn and the winning ticket came from California. On Thursday, Mark appeared in the studio but Kelly was nowhere to be found. Maria Menounos filled in for Kelly, and Mark told the audience that his wife was “on assignment.” However, fans couldn’t help but wonder if Kelly struck it rich and absconded to France.

The long-time Live host was absent again on Friday, and Mark was again joined by Maria.

Kelly Ripa Cheats On Husband Mark With Erik Estrada On Generation Gap

Meanwhile, on another show that Kelly Ripa hosts, she shared her feelings for another man.

Kelly is the host of The Generation Gap. It’s a new game show, barely into its second season, that pairs senior competitors with kids between the ages of 8 and 15. On the most recent episode of the show, Kelly fawned over her mystery guest. That mystery guest was Erik Estrada, 74, once considered a heartthrob and Hollywood dream boat who had a breakout role in CHiPs. He was brought on the show to stump younger contestants, and it appeared to work.

As one of the hints about his identity, Kelly shared that Erik went on to become a police officer in life. His role as Officer Francis Llewelyn “Ponch” Poncherello inspired him to pursue the career. After Kelly Ripa introduced him, Erik complimented her, telling her she looked wonderful. In an overly flirtatious voice, Kelly replied, “So do you, mystery celebrity.” Later, Kelly admitted to the audience, “I am in love with him.” Erik then gestured that he loves her too, and Kelly blushed and looked flustered.

While it isn’t exactly a declaration of marital infidelity, the playful moment comes amid questions about Kelly’s return to Live alongside her husband.

Do you think Kelly Ripa struck it rich and is leaving Live for good? And what do you think about her playful exchange with Erik Estrada? Sound off in the comments. And catch Live with Kelly and Mark on ABC weekdays at 9 AM EST. The Generation Gap airs Thursdays on ABC at 8 PM EST.