Kelly Ripa is reportedly feeling “betrayed” by co-host Michael Strahan, but there is one person who has her back—Oprah Winfrey.
Winfrey attended the Tribeca Tune In: ‘Greenleaf’ Screening at John Zuccotti Theater at BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center when Entertainment Tonight asked for her opinion on the drama surrounding “LIVE! With Kelly and Michael.”
“Nobody should ever be blindsided,” said Winfrey. “I don’t know who’s in charge, but somebody should’ve said, ‘This is gonna happen.’ You shouldn’t have to read it in the paper. Ever.”
Ripa hasn’t been on set for the morning talk show since Strahan announced his impending departure on April 19. Strahan is set to leave for “Good Morning America” in September. As for the whereabouts of Ripa, she is reportedly celebrating her 20th wedding anniversary in Turks and Caicos with husband Mark Consuelos.
Winfrey, who knows a thing or two about hosting a national television show by her lonesome on ABC, offered Ripa an idea.
“Does she wanna do it by herself now? She could!” said Winfrey. “I had a co-host for a long time and I wanted to do it by myself.”
But if she does need a co-host, Winfrey’s best friend, Gayle King has a suggestion on who could fill Strahan’s seat perfectly.
“I wouldn’t be mad if Andy Cohen was sitting in the chair,” King said. “I think Andy and Kelly would be great.”
Reports suggest the ABC network is considering Neil Patrick Harris or Anderson Cooper as replacements.
Winfrey has high hopes for Strahan and his new position, too.
“He’s going to be great on 'Good Morning America.’ I think Michael’s so great. He’s like a natural talent,“ Winfrey said. ”He won’t get any sleep, but he will be great.”
