Live with Kelly and Mark is set to return for its 39th season next week, unveiling a slate of celebrity guests that includes musicians, actors, and notable public figures. The show's executive producer, Michael Gelman, teased a strong lineup throughout the fall season, noting that the show aims to be a fun and welcoming stop for stars promoting upcoming projects.
The season premiere on Monday, Sept. 7, will feature rapper Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and ballet dancer Misty Copeland. The following day, Tuesday, Sept. 8, marks the show's return to the studio with guests Lizzo and Kal Penn, alongside a musical performance by Tift Merritt.
Mid-week, Wednesday, Sept. 9, will host actress Gal Gadot and motivational speaker Jim Kwik. Thursday, Sept. 10, includes actress Sandra Bullock and psychiatrist Dr. Gail Saltz, along with a "Shopping Day at Live" segment featuring Monica Mangin. The week concludes on Friday, Sept. 11, with appearances by Sherri Shepherd and actor Theo James.
Gelman highlighted the continuous effort involved in securing such a diverse range of guests. The show's booking team works with film studios, television networks, and public relations firms up to a year in advance to align with release schedules. Gelman described the process of scheduling guests as akin to assembling a daily puzzle, requiring coordination between media release dates and the show's availability.
According to Gelman, the show's appealing atmosphere contributes to its success in attracting talent. He stated that guests find the environment enjoyable and non-threatening, which encourages them to participate in press tours. The production staff, comprising about 24 core members with additional support, works to maintain this positive environment.