Mark Consuelos, co-host of ‘Live with Kelly and Mark’, has announced that he is set to undergo surgery to address a persistent issue with arthritis in his toe. During the episode aired on September 25, he disclosed that after postponing the operation for almost a year, he finally felt compelled to take action due to the significant pain associated with the condition.
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At the start of the show, Consuelos addressed his wife and fellow co-host, Kelly Ripa, stating, “Today’s the day. I’ve been putting off this toe surgery for about a year.” Ripa, who will accompany him to the hospital, revealed a light-hearted motive behind her support: “I’m not resisting the opportunity to video capture you coming out of your propofol haze,” she quipped, referring to the intravenous anaesthetic that would be administered during the procedure.
Despite being in good spirits, Consuelos confessed he was feeling somewhat “loopy” as he hadn’t eaten since the previous day, which elicited a light-hearted exchange about the pre-surgery fasting requirements. Ripa expressed her confusion over the fasting period, saying she was unaware such a lengthy fast was necessary prior to surgery. “It’s dumb. I just want to eat!” he jested, adding that he could easily be convinced to have a meal at any time.
As the conversation progressed, the couple turned their attention to the recovery process. Consuelos read from a list of care instructions for post-surgery, highlighting his hopes for Ripa to assist him during his recuperation. Among his requests were taking over household tasks, particularly walking their dog, Lena, and being particularly attentive during his recovery. “Put your phone down, take your AirPods out of your ears,” he playfully reminded her.
In typical Ripa fashion, she complemented her husband’s list with suggestions of various activities to fill the time during his downtime, humourously proposing that she could teach him how to knit. Consuelos, in a light-hearted manner, responded, “Yeah! I’m going to bedazzle my boot!” showcasing their trademark playful banter.
Ripa is no stranger to surgical recovery herself, having recently undergone gum graft surgery in late July. This procedure forced her to miss several episodes of ‘Live’, with Consuelos taking on the role of caregiver at that time. Ripa recounted her challenges, admitting to not strictly adhering to the doctor’s orders of avoiding conversation during her recovery, describing herself as “talking like crazy” after the operation.
While specifics about Consuelos’ surgery remained under wraps, he did clarify that it was not simply a cosmetic procedure. When Ripa cheekily asked if the operation was aimed at improving his golf game, he firmly stated, “No, it’s arthritic, it’s bad. I need help. Yeah, it hurts.” The actor elaborated in previous discussions that years of playing football had contributed to the condition, having developed a case of turf toe, which had been a cause for concern for some time.
In an amusing exchange earlier this year, Consuelos had jested that toe pain could rival the pain of childbirth. This comment drew a spirited response from Ripa, who reminded him of his complaints following a previous foot surgery, during which he reportedly lamented to a nurse that she didn’t understand the severity of his pain. Ripa famously pointed out her own experiences with three C-sections, underscoring the couple’s ongoing playful teasing.
Afterward, as an audience member shared their own experience with surgery and the necessity of fasting, Ripa launched another light-hearted jab at Consuelos: “Oh, groin, that’s a big one. He’s having a toe surgery!” The playful repartee continued, with Consuelos insisting that this particular surgery was far more significant than Ripa was letting on, candidly likening it to “a C-section for your toe.”
The amusing banter between the couple resonates with their audience, drawing them into their light-hearted dynamics. Fans of ‘Live with Kelly and Mark’ can anticipate further insights into Consuelos’ experience both before and after the operation when the show continues on Monday. Despite the impending surgery, sources indicate that Consuelos intends to remain active on the show, continuing his role in sharing the couple’s journey with their dedicated viewership.