Round one! Kelly Ripa will be joined by an eclectic mix of guest cohosts (including plenty of hunks) following Michael Strahan‘s departure from Live With Kelly & Michael on Friday, May 13. Live announced Ripa’s upcoming guest cohosts on Wednesday, May 4, after revealing that ABC late-night host Jimmy Kimmel will be filling Strahan’s spot on Monday, May 16.
On Tuesday, that seat will be filled by Empire actor Jussie Smollett, followed by comedian Cedric the Entertainer on Wednesday, May 18. Then, on Thursday, ABC World News Tonight anchor David Muir will take a brief break from his normally serious tone and have some fun on the lively morning show set with Ripa.
Finally, TGIF for Live fans, who will be greeted by Ripa and Hawaii Five-0 actor Daniel Dae Kim. The actor is currently in NYC starring in his Broadway debut as the King of Siam in The King and I.
Ripa, 45, and Strahan, 44, joked on Tuesday, May 3, about the comedic timing of his upcoming final day on Live. “We’ll remember, we’ll reminisce, we’re gonna look back at the fun times we had together,” Ripa said after reminding her audience that “she’s still here” when they booed Strahan’s departure. “So, join us for Michael’s ‘Flashback Friday Farewell’ on Friday the 13th!”
Laughing, Ripa added: “You can’t plan this! You literally cannot plan it.”
Ripa and Strahan have consistently made headlines since he first announced last month that he was leaving Live for a full-time stint on Good Morning America. After taking a sick day and some pre-planned time off, Ripa has stayed in the spotlight for bringing up numerous sensitive topics during the live telecast. So far, she’s mentioned contract negotiations, Strahan’s divorces and more.
Despite the behind-the-scenes drama, the former NFL player has repeatedly praised his cohost. He will join GMA full-time in September.
