Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos Say Goodbye to Live Studio After 37 Years: ‘Our Kids Grew Up Here’ (Exclusive)
In an emotional farewell, Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos bid adieu to their cherished Live with Kelly and Mark studio, which aired its final episode filmed at its iconic Upper West Side location on April 1, 2025. For 37 memorable years, this studio has been the birthplace of many unforgettable moments, showcasing various iconic hosts, starting with the legendary Regis Philbin and his co-host Kathie Lee Gifford.
Kelly Ripa joined the show in 2001 and has since captivated audiences alongside several partners, including Michael Strahan and Ryan Seacrest, before teaming up with her husband, Mark Consuelos, in April 2023. Although Mark’s official co-hosting experience has been relatively brief, the emotional connection to the studio runs deep for the couple and their family. Their children, Michael, Lola, and Joaquin, frequently visited the set during their formative years, creating an enduring bond with the studio and its dedicated crew.
A Place Filled with Memories
As Kelly and Mark reflected on their time at the studio, they shared countless anecdotes that highlighted the significance of the space in their lives. The studio not only served as a professional setting but also played a pivotal role in their family life. The couple fondly recalled how their children grew up within the walls of the studio, making it a second home for them. The interactions with the warm staff and the friendly atmosphere provided a nurturing environment that allowed them to balance their parenting duties with their careers seamlessly.
Mark expressed how vital the studio has been for their family, reinforcing that every corner of the set holds precious memories. Each episode broadcast was a testament to their journey, filled with laughter, challenges, and heartwarming moments that have bonded them as a family. The support they received from their colleagues cultivated a special camaraderie that made the daily grind an enjoyable experience.
Turning Points in Their Relationship
Reflecting on their romantic journey, Kelly and Mark noted how their return to the set, following a brief breakup in 1996, was a turning point in their relationship. The studio was not just a workplace; it became a backdrop for rekindled love, leading to their eventual marriage. The nostalgia intertwined with their professional lives reflects the type of connection that is rare in show business. This unique backdrop offered an atmosphere where their love story unfolded alongside their television careers.
As they prepare to move to a new studio located at The Robert A. Iger Building, the couple faces a range of emotions, mixing excitement with nostalgia. This new location promises advanced facilities and the capacity to accommodate various ABC shows, marking a significant transition for Ripa and Consuelos. They expressed their hopes that while the physical surroundings may change, the spirit of inclusion, warmth, and community they cultivated would continue in the new setting.
A Bright Future Ahead
Despite the inevitable challenges of leaving a beloved studio behind, Kelly and Mark remain committed to delivering engaging and entertaining content to their dedicated audience every weekday morning. As they embark on this new chapter, they promise to uphold the values and connections that have endeared them to viewers over nearly four decades. The couple’s passion for their work and their bond as parents and partners will undoubtedly shine through in their upcoming episodes, solidifying their place in the hearts of fans.
As they step into this fresh phase in their careers, Ripa and Consuelos are hopeful for what the future holds. They are eager to create new memories in their new space while honoring the legacy of the beloved studio that has been so instrumental in shaping not only their professional lives but their family life as well.
With this transition, they invite fans to join them on this exciting journey ahead, continuing to share their lives and stories with the audience they cherish so deeply.
