Live with Kelly and Mark

Live with Kelly and Mark is a popular American syndicated morning talk show, a flagship program of Disney–ABC Domestic Television. Originating from Times Square Studios in New York City, the program is known for its blend of celebrity interviews, topical discussions, and comedic segments. The show is the successor to the long-running Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee, having evolved through several host pairings before settling on its current title.

History

The program's lineage traces back to 1983 when it debuted locally on WABC-TV in New York City as *The Morning Show*, hosted by Regis Philbin and Cyndy Garvey. In 1988, Kathie Lee Gifford replaced Garvey, and the program was nationally syndicated as *Live with Regis and Kathie Lee*, becoming a cornerstone of daytime television. Following Gifford's departure in 2000, a series of co-hosts joined Philbin, including Kelly Ripa, who was selected in 2001. After Philbin's retirement in 2011, the show was rebranded *Live! with Kelly*, featuring a rotating roster of guest co-hosts until Michael Strahan was named permanent co-host in 2012. Strahan's departure in 2016 led to another period of guest hosts, with Ryan Seacrest ultimately joining Ripa from 2017 until 2023. In April 2023, Mark Consuelos, Ripa's real-life husband, officially succeeded Seacrest, prompting the show's latest rebranding to its current title.

Hosts

The primary hosts are Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos. Ripa, a veteran of daytime television known for her role on All My Children and as a co-host of the show since 2001, provides continuity and comedic energy. Consuelos, also famed for his work on All My Children and other series like Riverdale, brought an established on- and off-screen chemistry with Ripa upon his permanent appointment. Notable former hosts who shaped the program's legacy include the iconic Regis Philbin, the effervescent Kathie Lee Gifford, former NFL star Michael Strahan, and American Idol host Ryan Seacrest. The show has also featured a vast array of guest co-hosts from across the entertainment industry, including Anderson Cooper, Jerry O'Connell, and Jimmy Kimmel.

Format

Broadcast live on weekday mornings, the hour-long program follows a consistent structure designed for accessibility and entertainment. A typical episode opens with an unscripted "host chat" segment where Ripa and Consuelos discuss personal anecdotes and current events. This is followed by a series of pre-taped comedy bits, such as the popular "Cheater's Guide to the News" or audience interaction games. The core of the show features interviews with celebrity guests promoting projects in film, television, music, and literature, ranging from Oscar winners to stars of popular Netflix series. The program frequently includes musical performances, cooking demonstrations with renowned chefs, and lifestyle segments, often concluding with a final lighthearted chat.

Reception

The show has maintained strong ratings over decades, consistently ranking among the top-rated syndicated talk shows in key demographics as measured by Nielsen. Critics and audiences have praised the program for its lighthearted, escapist tone and the authentic, often humorous dynamic between its hosting pairs. The transition to Ripa and Consuelos was met with positive reviews, with commentators in outlets like The New York Times and *Variety* noting their natural rapport. The program's enduring popularity is evidenced by its successful expansion into digital platforms, including a significant presence on YouTube and Hulu, where clips and full episodes reach a broader audience.

Awards and nominations

*Live with Kelly and Mark* and its predecessor iterations have received numerous accolades, primarily recognizing its hosts. The show and its team have won several Daytime Emmy Awards, including multiple awards for Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show and Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host. Kelly Ripa has been individually honored with Emmy awards for her hosting. The program has also been nominated for and won Gracie Awards, which celebrate exemplary programming created for women. Furthermore, the show's producers and crew have been recognized by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences for technical achievement and overall excellence in daytime television.

Category:American television talk shows Category:Television series by Disney–ABC Domestic Television Category:Television shows set in New York City Category:Television shows filmed in New York City Category:1988 American television series debuts