This week on LIVE With Kelly And Mark, the show has been missing its co-host Kelly Ripa. While the reason for her absence hasn’t been officially announced yet, speculation points to her preparing for a trip to Los Angeles to receive a Disney Legends award. In her absence, actress Jane Krakowski and announcer Deja Vú have taken the helm, with Maria Menounos and Jenny Mollen set to wrap up the week as guest hosts.
Ripa, 53, is expected to attend the D23 Disney convention in Anaheim, California, where Disney will honor individuals who have made a significant impact on its legacy. This event continues a 40-year tradition and acknowledges a host of luminaries from various fields, including actors and creative talents. Past honorees like Angela Lansbury and Robin Williams have been celebrated for their contributions, and this year’s attendees include stars like Angela Bassett and Harrison Ford. The ceremony will be hosted by Ripa’s former co-host, Ryan Seacrest.
Upon hearing the news about her award during a recent episode of LIVE, Ripa expressed her surprise and pride. Having worked with Disney for over 34 years, she was thrilled, with her husband, Consuelos, praising her deserving recognition. He said, “I think you absolutely do belong. And I’m really, really proud of you.”
If her attendance at D23 is indeed the cause of her absence, we anticipate Ripa’s return to the show next week. If not, it will remain a mystery as to why she’s missing from her long-standing hosting gig since 2001.