Kelly Ripa is stepping back into her daytime roots. The Emmy-winning actor and longtime morning-show host joins Rebecca Budig and Greg Rikaart for a brand-new episode of Soapy hosted by Rebecca Budig and Greg Rikaart, and she’s bringing decades of stories with her. From her early breakout days on All My Children to her powerful run at LIVE, Kelly opens up about career-defining moments, love, motherhood, and the evolution of daytime itself.
Key Takeaways
- Ripa reflects on her early years on All My Children, including the moment she met Mark Consuelos.
- She shares how she balanced acting, motherhood, and the unexpected transition into hosting LIVE.
- Ripa discusses her work ethic, the gender pay gap, and the pressures of fame on her family.
Kelly Revisits Her All My Children Beginnings
Ripa (Hayley) looks back on joining All My Children at age 19 and how quickly the show changed her life. She recalls meeting Mark Consuelos (Mateo) for the first time — a moment that would eventually evolve into one of daytime’s most beloved real-life love stories. Ripa also shares some of her favorite on-set memories, including the years she spent having lunch every day with host Rebecca Budig (Greenlee, AMC; Taylor, The Bold and the Beautiful), who is now sitting across from her on the podcast.
She talks openly about the strong creative environment at AMC and how the show helped shape her drive, professionalism, and early understanding of the business. It was the foundation that prepared her for a future she never expected.
A Surprising Shift Into Morning Television
Ripa describes the surreal moment she received the offer to join LIVE. At the time, she was still working on All My Children while balancing the demands of new motherhood. She opens up about navigating the pay gap, carving out her voice in a long-running franchise, and the sheer stamina it takes to put together a live show every week.
Despite the intense workload, Ripa says the secret to her longevity on LIVE has always been the crew — many of whom she has worked with for years. Their consistency, trust, and energy shaped the environment that helped her thrive.
She also dives into her time on Hope & Faith, describing the comedy series as one of the most joyful projects she ever worked on. It was a chance to flex new creative muscles while continuing to grow as a performer.
Fame, Family, and Finding Balance
The conversation eventually shifts to Ripa’s home life. She shares how she and Consuelos raised their children amid the constant pressures of fame and tabloid interest. Ripa talks candidly about her kids’ perspectives, her marriage, and what it truly takes to maintain stability while living in the spotlight.
For longtime fans, the episode is a nostalgic journey through Ripa’s iconic daytime past. For newer viewers, it’s a rare window into the work ethic and personality that turned her into one of television’s most enduring figures.
