How Kelly Ripa Went From Dance Party USA To A Household Name

Publish date: 2024-05-05

When a worldwide pandemic hit in early 2020, many shows were taken off air. "Live," however, decided to improvise. In March, both Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest made the decision to co-host from their own homes. After all, the series had been on the air for nearly 32 years, and the show must go on!

While the lighting may not have been so great, the laughs were still there, and the ratings were through the roof (via Broadway World). Ripa still couldn't wait to get back to her seat in the studio, though — but she did have one stipulation. "I'm not coming back if I have to wear pants or bottoms of any kind," she joked to People. Hey, those of us who are still working from home can relate. 

After 180 days, the infamous duo finally returned to their studio in New York City in September. Things were slightly different, though. Not are they without an audience, but Ripa and Seacrest were seated six feet apart. To create the illusion that the two "Live" hosts were sitting together like old times, the producers used split screen magic. 

While Ripa seemed excited to be back on set, co-hosting from a computer screen is something she seems to secretly miss. "I love low [definition]," she quipped on an episode of "Live with Kelly & Ryan." "I couldn't believe how gorgeous I was." The very relatable Ripa had officially returned — and in high definition, no less.

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