Before Ryan Seacrest was officially announced as Kelly Ripa’s co-host on Live last year, Jerry O’Connell occasionally filled in. Fast forward to March 16, and Kelly and Jerry reunited when she appeared as a guest on The Wendy Williams Show, where Jerry was temporarily hosting due to Wendy’s medical leave. Their 14-minute segment was filled with energy and laughter, discussing everything from stylish footwear to family gatherings and reality TV. It was evident that they enjoyed every moment of it. Kelly, matter-of-factly, told Jerry, "You are absolutely killing it." This interaction wasn't just a friendly chat—it hinted at something deeper brewing behind the scenes.
Why Kelly Ripa Might Be Considering a Change
Here's the scoop: In February, Ryan Seacrest's former stylist at E!, Suzie Hardy, accused him of sexual harassment during their time working together from 2007 to 2013. Ryan, now 43, has denied these allegations, and Kelly, 47, believes in his innocence. However, Kelly feels embarrassed that she was blindsided by these allegations, which have now brought unexpected scrutiny to Live. An insider tells Life & Style that Kelly didn’t anticipate this kind of controversy and is now reconsidering her options. "This is the last thing in the world Kelly thought would happen," the insider explains. "That’s why she’s now re-engaging with Jerry and contemplating a plan to replace Ryan with him. The decision to choose Ryan over Jerry was tight, and in hindsight, Jerry might have been the better choice. Kelly and the execs at ABC are regretting this decision."
Why Jerry O'Connell Could Be a Great Fit
Let's talk about Jerry O’Connell. The guy is married to Rebecca Romijn, and together they’ve been raising their nine-year-old twin daughters for a decade now. Jerry brings a squeaky-clean image and undeniable charm to the table. "Jerry’s kind of like the one who got away from Live—he’s fun, quirky, and significantly less expensive than Ryan," says the insider. Unlike Ryan, who juggles hosting American Idol, radio duties, and numerous other commitments, Jerry, 44, has the time and energy to fully commit to Live. "He’s also a close friend of Kelly’s, and their on-screen chemistry is undeniable," adds a source.
Read also:Kate Walsh Shares Her Antiaging Secrets And Positive Outlook
Ryan Seacrest's Performance: Is It Meeting Expectations?
Let’s be honest, even before the scandal, Ryan wasn’t the runaway success many had hoped for. The show's ratings have been stagnant at around three million viewers, which is roughly a million less than when Michael Strahan was co-hosting. "That’s not what they had in mind when they brought Ryan in and offered him a truckload of cash," notes the source. Kelly has always been concerned that Ryan’s numerous commitments—between American Idol, his radio hosting, and other projects—have left him stretched too thin. "Ryan said his other projects wouldn’t interfere, but they seem to be taking a toll," adds the insider.
Jerry O'Connell: Ready to Step In?
Jerry is ready and willing to take the job. "Kelly’s already spoken to him about relocating from LA to New York for part of the year," the source reveals. Jerry is more than ready to make this move. "Jerry’s just waiting in the wings. He wanted to be Kelly’s co-host so badly," says the insider. Although Ryan isn’t ready to step down yet, if Live With Kelly and Ryan continues to disappoint during the May sweeps, Kelly will approach show executives about alternative co-host options. Then she’ll have a candid conversation with Ryan. "She thinks she can convince him that his heart and soul aren’t in it and that it would be best for him—and the show—if he were to step aside," the source concludes.
For more on Kelly and Ryan, pick up the latest issue of Life & Style, on newsstands now!
