After a six-season run, Ryan Seacrest bid farewell to “Live With Kelly and Ryan” on his last show this morning. This emotional moment brought tears to both Ryan Seacrest and his co-host, Kelly Ripa.
At the age of 48, Seacrest announced in February that he would be leaving the morning talk show. He described the decision as “bittersweet,” acknowledging the challenges of hosting the show in New York while living in Los Angeles and juggling his other hosting commitments, including “American Idol.”
In an interview with Variety last month, Seacrest explained, “The many hours I spent each year flying became a lot. It was longer than I expected, but it’s because of Kelly and the great people here. I had told Kelly over the last couple of years, ‘This is not going to be something that’s right for me forever for all the obvious geographical reasons,’ and she understood it.”
Despite his reasons for leaving, saying goodbye was still an emotional experience for Seacrest. During the final episode, both hosts expressed their emotions through heartfelt messages.
Seacrest expressed his gratitude, saying, “I know how lucky I am to have been on this show for the last six years. I’ve spent my whole career talking, but today it’s tough to express how much I’ve valued being here and being with you, invited into your homes every day. I feel honored to be part of this family.”
Kelly Ripa also became emotional as she bid farewell to Ryan. She referred to their time together as the fastest six years of her life, feeling like she gained a younger brother/oldest son through this journey. Ripa praised Seacrest’s goodness, kindness, charm, brilliance, authenticity, and generosity, adding some lighthearted humor to the moment.
But then she spoke from the heart, saying, “From the bottom of my heart and from all our hearts, we just want to thank you for being wonderful. You’re an original, authentic part of this show. You’re forever our family. We’re not saying goodbye; we’re only saying see you soon. I love you.”
On his final show, Seacrest had a special guest — the First Lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden. Seacrest’s family, including his parents, sister Meredith, and his girlfriend Aubrey Paige, were also present. The episode featured video clips showcasing fun and memorable moments from Seacrest’s time on the show, as well as more emotional highlights.
Although Seacrest’s departure marks the end of an era, “Live With Kelly and Ryan” already has a new co-host lined up: Kelly Ripa’s husband, Mark Consuelos. At the conclusion of the show, Consuelos brought a special cake, and Seacrest symbolically passed on his hosting role by giving him his mug.
Ryan Seacrest joined the show in 2017, succeeding Michael Strahan, who left to co-host “Good Morning America.” Over the years, “Live” has had various hosts, including the famous duo of Regis Philbin and Kathie Lee Gifford. After Gifford’s departure in 2000, Kelly Ripa became Philbin’s full-time co-host in 2001, and she has remained with the show ever since.
The final show was a heartfelt and memorable moment for both Kelly and Ryan. We will miss seeing them together, but we wish them both the best in their future endeavors.
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