It’s been a week since Ryan Seacrest announced his exit from Live with Kelly and Ryan . While the news was shocking, sources reveal that ABC executives are allegedly excited about his departure, and we’ll be spilling all details below.
Keep reading for all the scoop.
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Ryan’s Departure
The former E! producer shook the media world to its roots last week when he revealed he would be leaving his titular show on ABC after six years on board and co-hosting alongside Kelly Ripa.
Alleged Excitement Among Executives
However, sources have claimed that ABC executives were happy to learn of his decision to bid the show farewell.
Mark and Kelly’s Connection
Their excitement is because Kelly Ripa has a better connection with Mark Consuelos, who’s set to replace Seacrest, even though Seacrest and Ripa have maintained an excellent on-air relationship over the last six years.
Mark Consuelos On ABC
The actor who’ll replace Seacrest after his exit this spring is a familiar face on Live, as he has already served as a guest co-anchor many times over the years.
A New Era
The undeniable chemistry between Ripa and her real-life husband has urged ABC executives to decide to capitalize on it and welcome a new era for Live!
Seacrest’s Time Was Up
An insider at ABC confirmed that Seacrest had a good run on the show for six years, and now it’s his time to go, reiterating that the ABC network adored him and appreciated having him around.
More Viewership
They also noticed that Consuelos’s appearance on the show led to more viewers tuning in and engaging. The network’s executive traced it to the couples’ honesty about their active sex life and articulate delivery of hot and trending topics.
Ryan’s Ego
Seacrest’s ego also came to the forefront in the disclosure, as the source said he doesn’t like Consuelo’s popularity when he fills for him, which may also be the reason for his leaving.
No Tears
Apparently, there were no tears shed when Seacrest started talking about leaving, which only means that they’re ready to welcome Consuelos with open hands.
What’s Next For Ryan
A source has told Page Six that the Tv personality is keen to work more in the culinary sector. It’s no secret that he grows his own olive trees and has been pressing olive oil to share with friends.
Ryan Will Move Back To The West Coast
Seacrest is set to move back to the West Coast, where he recently sold his Beverly Hills home for $51 million. His girlfriend Aubrey Paige also lives in California.
Ryan’s Fortune
He has an estimated net worth of $450 million and was paid $10 million annually during his time on ABC’s Live!
Still With The Family
The actor will continue to host Idol and his New York Rocking Eve special for the ABC Network. His departure from Live isn’t the end of the road for his working relationship with the network.
An Experienced Producer
He’s also a producer of The Kardashians on Hulu, which Disney owns, and also premiered a scripted drama called The Watchful Eye on Freeform. He also has a radio show deal that extends till 2025.
Working With Kelly
In his exit announcement, he described working with Ripa as his dream job and one of the highlights of his career.
A Tough Decision
He described his decision to leave as a tough and bittersweet one. The show will be rebranded as Live With Kelly and Mark .
Ripa’s Tribute To Ryan
His co-host also had nice words for him.
The Third Co-Host
Consuelos is Ripa’s third co-host since she joined the show in 2001, replacing Kathie Lee Gifford and joining Regis Philbin, who died at 88 in July 2020. Philbin’s last show was in November 2011.
Mark And Kelly
The pair got married in May 1996 and shared three children. They live alone at the $27 million Upper East Side home as all their kids are out.