Kelly Ripa rejoined Michael Strahan on the set of ‘Live’ today and addressed the drama surrounding her sudden ‘break’ following Michael Strahan’s announcement he’s leaving the show for ‘GMA.’
“I want to honestly and sincerely thank you for welcoming me back to the show, the show of support to this bizarre time has been overwhelming,” she continued. “I needed a couple of days to gather my thoughts. After 26 years with this company I earned the right. … In that timed I gained some perspective. I always speak from the heart so I didn’t want to come out here and say something I regret.”
Kelly also noted that this sparked a discussion of “communication, consideration, and most importantly, respect in the workplace.”
“Since we’re being honest, I don’t consider this just a workplace – this is my second home,” she said. “This is a place that I devoted myself to, not just because of you, our loyal viewers but because of all of the producers and the crew who work on this show. We have an incredible team and we are devoted to one another. We are family.”
Kelly said “apologies have been made” and reassured her fans that the network had confirmed that Live! “is a priority.”
“There is a commitment to this show and the people that work here and most importantly the viewers who have watched us for years,” she said.
She also took a moment to congratulate Michael on his new gig.
“I am thrilled for Michael, this is a tremendous opportunity and I couldn’t be and we couldn’t be more prouder of you and everything we’ve accomplished together,” she said. “Back to the show, this is entertainment! It’s supposed to be entertaining.”
Added Strahan: “I’m so happy you’re back. And one thing I know about you is, you love this show. You love the fans. You love this staff. I love you. … And this show has been transforming for me. And I know this show will live on because you are the queen of morning television. And I’m right down the street. You need me, I’m coming back to help out!”
Watch below.
