Kelly Ripa is currently absent from “Live with Kelly and Mark” due to a “painful” oral surgery, co-host and husband Mark Consuelos announced Monday.
“Kelly sends her love,” Consuelos told viewers as he welcomed guest co-host Kevin Jonas. He explained that Ripa underwent gum graft surgery, a dental procedure used to treat receding gums.
Consuelos shared that Ripa’s dentist had recommended the surgery five years ago, to which Ripa quipped, “I didn’t think I’d still be on the air in five years!"
He assured viewers that Ripa, 55, is “doing well” and “doing great” but is adhering to strict recovery instructions from her dentist, which include refraining from talking.
“Wow, that’s got to be the hardest thing she’s ever done,” Jonas remarked, jesting about Ripa’s inability to speak.
Consuelos noted that Ripa, also 55, is a “great conversationalist” but is diligently following her dentist’s orders. He also clarified that she is limited to consuming only soft foods during her recovery. "It’s painful," Consuelos stated, adding that while Ripa famously tolerates pain well, this procedure is particularly difficult.
A spokesperson told People that Ripa is expected to be away from the show for approximately one week. Several celebrities are scheduled to co-host in her place throughout the week, with Jonas returning on Tuesday, followed by Mila Kunis on Wednesday, Pamela Adlon on Thursday, and Scott Foley on Friday.