The upcoming 39th season of "Live with Kelly and Mark" will feature new graphics, updated contests, and variations on the game "Stump Mark," according to executive producer Michael Gelman. Season 39 officially premieres on Tuesday, Sept. 8, with the co-hosts Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos entering their fourth year together at the helm.
Gelman highlighted the show's production team, which he described as "small but mighty," consisting of approximately 24 people. He attributed this compact size to the show's success, fostering an efficient, family-like atmosphere that he believes leads to better creative output. This contrasts with larger talk shows that may employ 200 to 250 production staff members.
"We’re always updating and improving," Gelman told Decider. He noted that even during the summer hiatus, the production team is actively working on new content. Planning for the new season begins as early as May and June, with full production mode commencing in August. Gelman also holds regular meetings with Ripa and Consuelos to discuss plans for the upcoming season.
The show has secured a strong network of guests through continuous outreach to movie, TV, and PR companies, often beginning six months to a year in advance. Gelman mentioned that the first week of Season 39 will include guests such as Lizzo, Kal Penn, Gal Gadot, Sandra Bullock, Theo James, and Sherri Shepherd. He also teased that plans for the show's annual Halloween episode are underway, with a concept that parodies pop culture events from the past year.
Gelman confirmed that "Live with Kelly and Mark" has consistently been the number-one entertainment talk show, both daytime and nighttime, for years, with strong viewership numbers even during the summer months. He also noted that the show has a long-standing renewal with its network, indicating that its continuation is largely assumed rather than a point of uncertainty.