Michelle Buteau stepped in as guest co-host for the August 6, 2026, episode of “Live with Kelly and Mark,” filling in for Kelly Ripa. Ripa has been absent since the previous week as she recovers from gum graft surgery.
This week's episodes of "Live" have been pre-recorded. According to a production source, the show observes its annual summer break this month. Season 38 of "Live" will continue through August 28. The upcoming Season 39 is scheduled to premiere on September 8, marking Ripa's return to live broadcasting following her procedure.
Buteau recently made an appearance as a co-host on “The View” earlier this summer. The August 6 episode of "Live" also featured guests Walt Willey and Patina Miller. Carrie Coon is slated to guest co-host an upcoming episode, which will include a visit from actress Emmy Rossum.