Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos bid farewell to their long-standing presence at the ‘Live’ studio in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. The beloved hosts reflected on the cherished memories they have created as the curtain closes on their time at the Upper West Side studio in New York City. As they filmed the final episode on April 1, 2025, emotions ran high as they said goodbye to the iconic location that has been the heart of their show for 37 years.
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The studio, located at 7 Lincoln Square, 67th St. and Columbus Ave., has been the backdrop for various hosts, including the legendary Regis Philbin and Kathie Lee Gifford. Kelly Ripa joined the show in 2001, eventually hosting alongside Michael Strahan and Ryan Seacrest, and currently sharing the spotlight with her husband, Mark Consuelos. The couple expressed the deep sentimental value the studio holds for them, with Consuelos noting, “Our kids grew up here.” The Consuelos family, consisting of Michael, Lola, and Joaquin, have spent countless days at the studio, forming strong bonds with the show’s crew.
Reflecting on the early days, Ripa shared how she juggled being a full-time working mother, thanks to the leniency of being able to have her children at work with her. The studio not only became a workplace but also a hub for their personal relationships, with some of their closest friends being part of the Live family. Their children even developed relationships with the crew, forming a tight-knit community within the studio walls.
The significance of the Live studio goes beyond just being a workplace for Ripa and Consuelos. The location played a pivotal role in their relationship, as they reconciled and decided to marry after appearing on the show together in 1996. The unexpected turn of events during that appearance solidified their bond, leading them to realize their love for each other. As they bid adieu to the familiar studio, they acknowledge the profound impact it has had on their personal and professional lives.
The move to the new downtown home signifies a new chapter for Live with Kelly and Mark, marking a transition from a cherished past to an exciting future. The new studio at 7 Hudson Square promises a fresh start for the show, aligning with the dynamic nature of daytime television. With multiple studios in the new headquarters, the Live family looks forward to embracing the change while holding onto the memories and connections forged at their former home.
As the iconic show prepares to embrace the next phase of its journey, Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos pay tribute to the legacy and camaraderie cultivated at the ‘Live’ studio. Their heartfelt reminiscences and shared experiences underscore the profound impact the studio has had on their lives and relationships. The closing of this chapter symbolizes a bittersweet moment for the hosts, crew, and viewers alike, as they bid a fond farewell to a place that has been the backdrop of their shared memories and milestones.