Kelly Ripa Hints at Retirement Plans From 'Live With Kelly and Mark'

The longtime talk show host discusses the future of the program and qualities she hopes for in a potential replacement.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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Kelly Ripa, the co-host of the long-running talk show 'Live With Kelly and Mark,' has hinted at her potential retirement plans. In a recent interview, Ripa expressed that she does not intend to work for the rest of her life, suggesting she may step away from the show at some point. However, she emphasized her belief that the show will continue as a 'franchise' and that she would ensure the right person replaces her and her husband, Mark Consuelos, when the time comes.

Why it matters

Kelly Ripa's comments about her retirement plans from 'Live With Kelly and Mark' are significant, as she has been a fixture on the show for over two decades. Her departure would mark the end of an era and raise questions about the future of the program and who might succeed her and Consuelos as co-hosts.

The details

In an interview with Decider, Ripa, 55, stated that she believes the talk show will continue to exist 'for as long as linear television exists,' suggesting she sees the program as a long-term franchise. She also expressed her desire to ensure that any potential replacement for her and Consuelos would be the 'right fit' for the show and its audience. Ripa acknowledged that she does not intend to work 'for the rest of my life,' hinting at her eventual retirement, but did not provide a specific timeline for when that might occur.

  • In a July 2025 podcast appearance, Ripa discussed her husband, Mark Consuelos, frequently tuning her out while they are live on the air.

The players

Kelly Ripa

A 55-year-old actress and television personality who has been the co-host of 'Live With Kelly and Mark' since 2001.

Mark Consuelos

A 54-year-old actor who joined 'Live With Kelly and Mark' as Ripa's co-host in 2023, after previously working with Ripa on the soap opera 'All My Children.'

Regis Philbin

A former co-host of 'Live' who worked with Kathie Lee Gifford before Ripa joined the show in 2001.

Kathie Lee Gifford

A former co-host of 'Live' who worked with Regis Philbin before Ripa joined the show in 2001.

Ryan Seacrest

A television personality who joined 'Live With Kelly and Mark' as a co-host in 2017, but announced his departure from the show in 2023.

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What they’re saying

“I believe this show will continue on for as long as linear television exists. I believe that there are too many talented people out there that really deserve the opportunity to find their own audience and grow the audience the way they see fit. Because I don't intend to work for the rest of my life. I really do not.”

— Kelly Ripa, Co-host, 'Live With Kelly and Mark' (Decider)

“I am very steadfast in everything I do, and so when you have me, you have me for life. Having said that, I don't intend to work at this job for the rest of my life. I do talk about retirement with great interest, but right now I'm very happy, especially working with Mark.”

— Kelly Ripa, Co-host, 'Live With Kelly and Mark' (The Purist)

The takeaway

Kelly Ripa's comments about her potential retirement from 'Live With Kelly and Mark' suggest that the long-running talk show may be facing a transition in the coming years, as the co-host contemplates stepping away from the program. Her emphasis on ensuring the right replacement is found highlights the importance of maintaining the show's success and connection with its audience.