Three years after leaving his daytime talk show gig alongside co-host Kelly Ripa on “Live with Kelly and Michael,” former New York Giants defensive lineman Michael Strahan has finally come forward with the truth about their strained relationship. In a recent interview with Time magazine, he revealed that he and Kelly haven’t spoken “in a long time.”
The announcement of Strahan’s departure from the show in 2016 caught Ripa by surprise, leading to an immediate rift between the two. It was a surprising turn of events, as they had once ruled the daytime chat scene with their fun chemistry and banter, which earned them high ratings.
Strahan’s move to Good Morning America as a co-host was rumored to have blindsided Ripa, causing her unhappiness with how things played out. The rift between them made headlines, and despite the passage of time, their relationship remains unrepaired. Strahan admitted, “I haven’t spoken to her in a long time.”
During his time on “Live” from 2012 to 2016, Strahan also served as a contributor on Good Morning America starting in 2014. When the opportunity for a full-time co-hosting position on GMA came along, he couldn’t pass it up. However, he didn’t inform Ripa beforehand, leading to her taking a nearly week-long leave, which the network called a “pre-scheduled vacation,” the day after Strahan’s announcement.
Upon her return, Ripa alluded to the situation by discussing the importance of communication, consideration, and respect in the workplace. Meanwhile, “Live” had various guest co-hosts before Ryan Seacrest ultimately took over the position about a year later.
Strahan’s career has continued to thrive since leaving “Live.” In addition to co-hosting the third hour of Good Morning America and “Fox NFL Sunday,” he is also a producer and star of the game show “The $100,000 Pyramid.”
While reactions on social media have been divided, with some firmly supporting Strahan and others questioning Ripa’s involvement, it’s clear that the rift has left a lasting impact. Strahan’s revelation about his fractured relationship with Ripa highlights the challenges of navigating personal and professional dynamics in the entertainment industry.
In the end, Strahan’s departure from “Live” was a business decision that caused significant turbulence. As one commenter aptly stated, “He doesn’t owe her anything… plain and simple.” It’s a reminder that despite their once strong bond on-screen, off-screen dynamics can be more complex.
