Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos rarely dip their toes into political waters, but the longtime ABC morning hosts made an exception on Wednesday.
During their lively “LIVE” broadcast, the couple addressed the controversy surrounding late-night host Jimmy Kimmel and highlighted the importance of the First Amendment in the United States.
A Rare Political Moment for Daytime Stars
Both 54, Ripa and Consuelos admitted that their show normally avoids politics.
“We know that our fans at home want an escape from all of that, and we agree — we want an escape from all of that!” Mark said.
He added a note of perspective about free speech, noting that anyone can say something “crazy” and risk public backlash, which makes the First Amendment crucial.
Kelly chimed in, describing the tone of their syndicated series as “light, frothy, and non-controversial.” “We are non-controversial.
We are like melted ice cream,” she joked, while acknowledging the current climate where even casual comments can spark outrage.
She emphasized the balance of free expression, noting that while she has the right to speak, others have the right to critique her online—and that’s the beauty of living in a free society.
Standing by Jimmy Kimmel
The couple didn’t just discuss free speech—they also spoke personally about Jimmy Kimmel, who returned to his ABC show Tuesday after a three-episode suspension.
The suspension followed backlash over comments Kimmel made regarding the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.
Mark praised Kimmel’s character: “He’s one of the kindest, most generous people that I know.
Cares about his family, takes care of his crew, his staff, everybody. He really, really cares.
And his statements last night, I think, were on point. He understands both sides, he was very humble in his speech.”
Kelly agreed, noting that Kimmel’s first monologue back, which has amassed 14 million views on YouTube, was “responsible.”
In that 15-minute opening, Kimmel tearfully clarified his remarks, emphasizing that he never intended to make light of Kirk’s murder and condemning violence as “un-American.”
A Thoughtful Conversation About Politics
Ripa and Consuelos also touched on their own political stances.
Mark, who campaigned for Hillary Clinton in 2016, and Kelly, who has never publicly revealed her political affiliation, said they have friends across the political spectrum and strive to maintain open-minded perspectives.
From Soap Opera Love Story to Real-Life Partnership
The couple’s rapport is as enduring as it is charming.
They met in a gym in 1995 before playing onscreen lovers Hayley and Mateo on ABC’s “All My Children.” Their chemistry quickly turned real, leading to a Las Vegas elopement at the Chapel of the Bells in 1996.
Today, they are proud parents of Michael, 28, singer Lola, 24, and college graduate Joaquin, 22, and share a $27 million Upper East Side townhouse.
Balancing Fame, Family, and Free Speech
As empty nesters and television icons, Ripa and Consuelos show that even daytime hosts can weigh in on important cultural moments while maintaining their trademark warmth and humor.
Their defense of Kimmel and reflection on free expression underscore the ongoing relevance of the First Amendment—even in a world where every comment can ignite debate.