For her much-anticipated return to “Live With Kelly and Michael” today, Kelly Ripa knew she wanted to send a message. The television star did just that in sky-high red Saint Laurent “Janis” platform pumps and a matching Roland Mouret jumpsuit.
Ever since ABC announced Michael Strahan‘s move to “Good Morning America” (reportedly just 30 minutes after Ripa was informed), the television world has been buzzing about the situation unraveling behind the scenes. During today’s show, Ripa sent a firm message, but also assured viewers she was moving forward. She also said that network executives were committed to the show for the long-term and congratulated Strahan.
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“I needed a couple of days to gather my thoughts. After 26 years with this company, I earned the right,” she told the audience, who gave her a standing ovation. “In that time, I gained some perspective. I always speak from the heart. I didn’t want to come out here and just, like, say something I might regret. So what transpired though, over the course of a few days, has been extraordinary — in the sense that it started a much greater conversation about communication and consideration and, most importantly, respect in the workplace.” (CNN Money released the full transcript of the remarks this morning.)
It’s unclear how long Strahan will remain on “Live,” but sources speculate he may leave by early summer and take a break before heading to “GMA” full-time this fall. In the past few days, he’s been on the show with a series of guest hosts, including Erin Andrews and “Pretty Little Liars” star Shay Mitchell, who wore M. Gemi shoes to fill in on Monday.
