Since Ryan Seacrest debuted on Live With Kelly and Ryan in 2017, he has become a regular fixture on the daytime TV show. He has interviewed countless celebrities and shared personal anecdotes from his life behind the scenes. Fans have gotten to know him well beyond his gigs as the host of major projects like American Idol. However, Ryan surprised everyone in February 2023 when he announced his plans to leave the ABC morning show and say goodbye to his longtime co-star Kelly Ripa.
In this article, we'll explore the details behind Ryan Seacrest's impending exit from Live With Kelly and Ryan, including why he's leaving, when he's leaving, and who his replacement will be.
Why is Ryan Seacrest leaving Live With Kelly and Ryan?
Shortly after Ryan's on-air announcement, he took to Instagram to share why he is leaving Live. As he wrote in the caption, he only meant to stay for three seasons. But he enjoyed hanging out with Kelly so much that he renewed his contract for another three seasons.
"When I signed on to host Live in 2017, it was meant to be for 3 years," he revealed on February 16. "But I loved the job and working with Kelly so much that I extended my time, and last year I made the decision to stay on for one more final season."
As for what Ryan plans to do next, he clarified that he won't be leaving the entertainment world altogether. He'll keep hosting American Idol and producing his radio show on KIIS-FM, per his Instagram caption. Ryan will also continue starring on Dick Clark's New Years Rockin' Eve along with expanding his philanthropic work with his Ryan Seacrest Foundation.
When is Ryan Seacrest leaving Live?
According to the daytime talk show, Ryan is expected to leave sometime in spring 2023.
While he hasn't set an official date for his last day on set, it's plausible that he may depart before the live shows begin on American Idol in mid-April. Since he would need to be in Los Angeles full-time by that point, it would make sense for him to leave Live before the busiest part of the singing competition series starts.
Who is replacing Ryan Seacrest on Live?
Unlike most co-hosts on Live, fans are already familiar with Ryan's successor. Riverdale star Mark Consuelos (a.k.a. Kelly's husband) will step into Ryan's seat as the next co-host.
To celebrate the big news, Mark posted an Instagram photo of the trio to share in the big excitement. "Congrats on your next chapter @ryanseacrest," he captioned a photo of him, Kelly, and Ryan. "I love you like a brother. I know I have some big shoes to fill..."
Mark added: "@kellyripa my ride or die. This is going to be amazing! I can’t believe after all these years of listening to you talk for free, I found a way to get paid for it. Is this a great country or what? ❤️."
What's next for Ryan Seacrest?
Even though Ryan is leaving Live, he has a lot going on. He'll continue hosting American Idol, producing his radio show, and starring on Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve. In addition, he'll expand his philanthropic work with his Ryan Seacrest Foundation. Ryan's foundation aims to inspire today's youth through entertainment and education-focused initiatives.
Conclusion
Ryan Seacrest's departure from Live With Kelly and Ryan is bittersweet for fans who have grown to love him over the years. However, they can take comfort in knowing that he will continue to be a presence in the entertainment world, hosting American Idol and producing his radio show. As for Live, fans can look forward to seeing Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos continue to entertain audiences in the years to come.
FAQ's
Q: When did Ryan Seacrest announce that he was leaving Live With Kelly and Ryan?
A: Ryan Seacrest announced his plans to leave Live With Kelly and Ryan in February 2022.
2. When is Ryan Seacrest expected to leave Live With Kelly and Ryan?
According to the daytime talk show, Ryan is expected to leave sometime in spring 2023. However, he hasn't set an official date for his last day on set.
3. Will Ryan Seacrest continues to work in the entertainment industry after leaving Live?
Yes, Ryan Seacrest clarified on his Instagram that he won't be leaving the entertainment world altogether. He'll keep hosting American Idol and producing his radio show on KIIS-FM, per his Instagram caption. Ryan will also continue starring on Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve along with expanding his philanthropic work with his Ryan Seacrest Foundation.
4. Who will replace Ryan Seacrest on Live With Kelly and Ryan?
Riverdale star Mark Consuelos (a.k.a. Kelly's husband) will step into Ryan's seat as the next co-host of Live With Kelly and Ryan.
5. How long has Ryan Seacrest been on Live With Kelly and Ryan?
Ryan Seacrest has been a co-host on Live With Kelly and Ryan since 2017 when he debuted on the show. He has been a fixture of the daytime TV show, with countless celebrity interviews and personal anecdotes from his life behind the scenes.