Ryan Seacrest made a tearful exit from “Live with Kelly and Ryan” after six seasons as co-host of the popular ABC daytime show. The final episode was an emotional affair, with both Seacrest and Kelly Ripa reminiscing about their time together, sharing laughs and heartfelt moments.
Emotional Farewell
Seacrest’s loved ones also made a rare appearance to cheer him on, including his girlfriend Aubrey Paige Petcosky, his parents, sister, and niece. The atmosphere was bittersweet as Seacrest thanked everyone involved in making the show memorable, including Ripa, viewers, Disney/ABC, and the Live staff.
Mark Consuelos Makes an Appearance
Mark Consuelos, Ripa’s husband and Seacrest’s successor, also made a surprise appearance on the show. Consuelos presented Seacrest with a cake and kind words as they bid him farewell.
Custom Golf Gift From Ripa and Consuelos
Furthermore, in addition to Mark’s thoughtful appearance on Friday’s final show, Kelly gifted Ryan with a highly personalized “Live-worthy” parting gift: a custom golf bag and balls as he takes his love of the sport back to California.
Emotional Gratitude Expressed by Seacrest Towards Ripa
Seacrest expressed his gratitude for the gift from both Ripa and Consuelos. He shared that he has developed an interest in sports such as tennis and golf. The golf bag is described as “beautiful” and “elegant,” with enough space to carry his newly acquired golf clubs. Seacrest considers Ripa to be family and expresses gratitude towards her for her friendship.
New Plans
It was announced earlier this year that Seacrest would be departing from “Live with Kelly and Ryan” to focus on his other ventures, including hosting “American Idol” and his popular radio show. Meanwhile, Ripa’s husband, Consuelos, has been named her new co-host, and the show will be rebranded as “Live with Kelly and Mark.”
Remarks from Aubrey Paige Petcosky
Following the emotional episode, Seacrest’s girlfriend Aubrey Paige Petcosky took to Instagram to express her pride, admiration and love for him. She shared that she was excited about their next chapter together as a couple.
Overall, Seacrest’s final episode on “Live with Kelly and Ryan” was a heartfelt tribute to six years of laughter, joy, and friendship between the two co-hosts. The emotional goodbye was fitting for a man who has left an indelible mark on daytime television.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
