Why is Ryan Seacrest leaving Live with Kelly and Ryan? (Who’s replacing him?)

Ryan Seacrest has only been a part of Live with Kelly and Ryan since 2017 (and Kelly Ripa joined in 2001), but it truly feels like he’s always been there. The dynamic and chemistry between the two co-hosts has really worked over the years! In a surprising turn of events on Feb. 16, 2023, Seacrest officially announced he will be leaving his seat on the talk show.

In an Instagram post, Seacrest shared that the job was only meant to be three years, but turned into six after enjoying his role and working so well with his “work wife.” Since last year, he’s known 2023 would be his final season on the ABC talk show. Transitioning the co-host out will begin sometime in spring 2023 as he heads to Los Angeles to film the American Idol season 21 live shows.

The American Idol host came in to replace Michael Strahan in 2016, after the former football player left in to take his place on Good Morning America. So Seacrest replaced Strahan, who will replace the current co-host?

Who is replacing Ryan Seacrest?

While we’re very sad to see Seacrest go, his replacement is an exciting one! Ready? Ripa’s new co-host will be none other than Mark Consuelos, aka the television personality’s real-life husband! According to TVLine, the show’s name will be changed to Live with Kelly and Mark.

The couple met in the ’90s as they both starred in the popular ABC soap opera, All My Children. They were married in 1996 and have three children. So cute! Consuelos has actually appeared to guest host on the talk show many times before, so the new job won’t be completely new to him or to viewers.

Why is Ryan Seacrest leaving Live with Kelly and Ryan?

Seacrest didn’t give an exact reason as to why he’s decided to make this season his last. However, it seems like the media personality is ready to settle down in one place. He’s been jumping between New York City for Live with Kelly and Ryan and LA for American Idol and his radio show KIIS-FM for the last few years. And this lifestyle can definitely get tiring, so we really can’t blame him! Seacrest also shared he’ll be opening three more Ryan Seacrest Foundation Studios in pediatric hospitals this summer, which he will be focusing on.

But don’t be too glum Live with Kelly and Ryan fans! During his announcement on the show, Ripa’s co-host did say he won’t be gone forever. He’s already set and ready to return as guest host when needed. That’s great news indeed!

Stay tuned to Hidden Remote as we bring you more news about Seacrest’s exit. Live with Kelly and Ryan airs weekdays on ABC.