Kelly Ripa, reportedly furious over how the announcement of her co-host Michael Strahan's coming departure was handled, will stay away from "Live" a few more days.
PAST COVERAGE: Kelly Ripa skips "Live" the day after Michael Strahan announces exit .. Michael Strahan leaving "Live" to focus on "GMA"
Credit: Jennifer Brett
Credit: Jennifer Brett
Actress Ana Gasteyer sat in on Wednesday. Erin Andrews filled in on Thursday while Shay Mitchell is on deck to fill in next, Deadline reports.
Strahan discussed his departure, which doesn't actually happen for a few more months, during Wednesday's show.
Ripa didn't have an immediate public response but is reportedly quite irked.
Variety reports that "Ripa was angry after ABC executives gathered her, Strahan and the show's staff together at the end of Tuesday's taping to reveal that Strahan would end his run at 'Live' in four months, then move full time to 'GMA.' Immediately afterward, the network announced the move publicly. That night, Strahan received a call from the show telling him that Ripa would not be coming to work the next day."
The New York Daily News reported that Ripa "threw a fit" when she learned her co-host would be leaving. The Wrap posted a piece saying "Ripa is having a diva-like fit of pique."
The New York Time reports "rancor behind the scenes."
On Thursday's show Strahan and Andrews cheerily discussed health news - he's a whole milk guy, she's a skim fan - and other topics. Ripa made an appearance of sorts; she and Strahan appeared in a pre-taped dancing montage to usher in a fan interaction segment.
Strahan addressed his departure on Wednesday.
“I was reading some stuff and it was like I died. It’s not a eulogy, people!” he said. “For everybody who’s come through here in the live audience over the course of the last four years, thank you, guys. I can’t ask for better fans. I’ve worked with an incredible staff here. I’m always available to guest co-host if I get a call because I consider myself a part of this family forever.”
He saluted Ripa, whose absence is being officially described by the show as a prescheduled vacation.
“Kelly welcomed me here,” he said. “I’ve learned so much from her. Kelly, I thank you. I love you..I’m not gonna cry on TV!”
Ripa's Twitter and Instagram accounts have been silent for days - no mention of Strahan.
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