Kelly Ripa Bio: From Humble Beginings to Hysterical Co-Host

From Humble Beginings to Hysterical Co-Host

From humble New Jersey roots to national celebrity Kelly Ripa became the reigning day time diva when she won the coveted co-host seat on ABC’s popular morning show “Live! With Regis and Kelly.” 

Ripa made her television debut on the popular 1980s “Dance Party USA” donning gold sequins, big hair, and over done makeup. Ripa was on her way up and it wouldn’t be long until she made her mark in the world of entertainment, as the mischievous Hayley Vaughn on ABC’s popular soap opera “All My Children.” 

Some critics may consider soaps the bottom of the barrel when it comes to talent, but Ripa didn’t let that rain on her parade. She comically reflected on the perks of her job saying “I get paid to make out with the hunks!" to askmen.com. 

“All My Children” did more for Ripa than jump start her career, it introduced her to her real life hunk, co-star Mark Consuelos. In true soap opera style the two eloped for a quick Vegas wedding in 1996. Ripa said “I had already been married five times on the show. The last thing I wanted was a big wedding" to tv.com. 

After the wedding Ripa was on the coat tails of motherhood, a year later having her first son, Michael. But Ripa didn’t let parenthood slow her down; in fact she became a first class juggler managing marriage, motherhood, and a career that was about to catapult her into a bona fide celebrity. 

In 2001 Ripa was offered the co-host seat on “Live!” and began working side by side with Regis Philbin. Pregnant again, with daughter, Lola, and still working on “All My Children,” Ripa was able to win over the American audience with her quick wit and comic narrative to Philbin’s often over-dramatic life.