Mark Consuelos, co-host of *Live with Kelly and Mark*, announced the passing of his father, Saul Consuelos, who died peacefully on March 23 after battling a long illness. This poignant news was shared during the broadcast of the show on April 6, where both Mark and his wife, Kelly Ripa, paid tribute to Saul’s legacy and the profound impact he had on their lives and those of their children.
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Kelly Ripa expressed her heartfelt sentiments about her father-in-law, describing him as “the greatest person I’ve ever known.” Her voice choked with emotion, she conveyed the deep sense of loss felt by their family, stating, “I can honestly say I will miss him every day for the rest of my life, as I know you will, as our children will.” Ripa emphasised that the couple’s three children — Michael, 28, Lola, 24, and Joaquin, 23 — are particularly affected by this loss, as it is the first time they have faced the death of a loved one.
Mark reflected on his father’s remarkable life, characterised by his journey as an immigrant from Mexico who served in the United States Navy for thirty years. He recounted how Saul’s experiences shaped him into a dedicated father who taught invaluable life lessons. “It’s funny, I used to make a joke about my dad — if you asked him what time it was, he would tell you how to build a watch,” he said, recalling the many lectures and hands-on lessons he received during his upbringing.
The actor revealed the significant role his father played in his life both domesitcally and in his professional journey. Saul was deeply involved in the family, assisting with childcare while Mark was busy with work commitments. Ripa mentioned how Saul often attended school events and appointments in his son’s absence, so much so that people would mistake him for Mark. Ripa recounted a humorous incident: “One year, randomly, [Mark] showed up and they were like, ‘Is this your new husband? Because he resembles your old husband.’”
Saul’s life story is a testament to resilience and dedication. Mark spoke about how Saul came to the United States as a teenager, progressing through the ranks of the Navy to serve at the Special Operations Command. During this time, he prioritised education, earning a master’s degree and exemplifying the opportunities that immigration can provide. “If you’re going to put a face to an immigrant, he would be the prime example of what this country promises people,” Mark stated, highlighting his father’s pride in his adopted nation.
In the wake of sorrow, Mark found solace in his creative work. He mentioned that rehearsals for his Broadway play, *Fallen Angels*, provided a much-needed distraction during a challenging period in his life. He took comfort in the belief that his father would be watching over him, allowing him to keep moving forward amid grief.
As the family navigates this difficult time, their focus has shifted toward supporting Mark’s mother, Camilla. Mark made light-hearted comments about convincing her to relocate to New York, highlighting her spirited nature. “We gotta take care of Mom… She’s such a character, she’s stubborn,” he said, while suggesting a potential cooking segment featuring her.
Amid the laughter, Ripa turned to her husband and acknowledged the remarkable qualities that he shares with his father. “You’re the strongest person I know. You continually inspire me every day. All of the good things that I love about you, I loved those same things about your dad,” she communicated, offering gratitude for the influence Saul had on their family.
As they reminisce about Saul’s life and legacy, the Consuelos family is united in their grief while also celebrating the memories they shared. Saul’s story continues to resonate not only within their personal lives but offers a reflection of the immigrant experience and the values that transcend generations. In this time of mourning, the family remains dedicated to one another, demonstrating their strength as they honour the life of a beloved patriarch.