The search for Regis Philbin’s replacement as at an end! According to The Hollywood Reporter, Michael Strahan has just been named as Kelly Ripa’s co-host of the popular daytime talk show, “Live! With Kelly.” The show, which had been searching for a new co-host since Philbin’s retirement last November, will now be called “Live! With Kelly and Michael.”
Strahan was a star defensive end for the New York Giants, and made an interesting transition into the world of entertainment as an actor/host on the short-lived 2009 Fox sitcom “Brothers,” and hosting stints on such series as DIY Network’s “Backyard Stadiums.” Strahan is also a football analyst on Fox NFL Sunday.
The Hollywood Reporter reports that Strahan made 20 appearances as a guest co-host on the daytime program over the past two years. Since Philbin’s retirement, many TV personalities tried their hand at co-hosting. Some of the previous contenders included Jerry Seinfeld, Neil Patrick Harris, Jim Parsons, Alec Baldwin, Kim Kardashian, Mary J. Blige and Ripa’s husband, Mark Consuelos.
Michael Gelman, executive producer for the show, commented on Strahan’s chemistry with Ripa:
“As a guest co-host, Michael’s chemistry with Kelly was off the charts, and continued to grow each time he visited the show. The interaction between the co-hosts always has been what makes this show different from any other on television. Kelly and Michael’s ability to play off of one another and just plain have a good time together creates great TV for the audience.”
Congratulations, Michael!
