Kelly Ripa, the renowned television personality and long-time host of “Live with Kelly and Ryan,” has accumulated not only fame and fortune but also a fair share of critics and controversies throughout her career.

Despite her cheerful persona on camera, Ripa’s interactions with fellow celebrities and co-hosts have sometimes been marked by tension and outright feuds.

Michael Strahan’s Rocky Relationship with Kelly Ripa

One of the most publicized conflicts involved former NFL star Michael Strahan, who co-hosted “Live with Kelly and Michael” from 2012 to 2016. Initially, the duo appeared to share great chemistry, even securing a Daytime Emmy Award.

However, the relationship soured dramatically when Strahan announced his departure for “Good Morning America.”

TMZ reported that behind the scenes, tensions rose sharply, with allegations surfacing that Ripa had bullied Strahan. Reflecting on the fallout, Strahan shared with People magazine in 2016, “At one point, I think we were friends. I don’t know what happened at the end.”

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The situation was exacerbated by Ripa’s reaction to Strahan’s exit announcement, notably her abrupt absence from the show immediately afterward, which Howard Stern criticized publicly as unprofessional.

In 2020, Strahan attempted to repair the relationship by proposing regular meetings with Ripa, but she declined, highlighting ongoing friction. Despite this, Strahan maintains a stance of respect, stating, “I don’t hate her. I do respect her for what she can do at her job.”

Regis Philbin’s Complicated Legacy with Ripa

Legendary television host Regis Philbin, who introduced Ripa to mainstream daytime television audiences, also experienced tension with his former co-host.

Philbin, who hosted the morning show from 1983 to 2011, maintained a professional but distant relationship with Ripa. According to a revealing New York Times interview, Philbin had a rule against off-camera interaction, aiming to preserve genuine reactions during broadcasts.

However, after leaving the show, Philbin expressed disappointment in their relationship, indicating he felt alienated after departing.

He notably preferred his professional relationship with former co-host Kathie Lee Gifford, with whom he maintained a close friendship until his death. The stark contrast in his relationships with Gifford and Ripa underscores a palpable disconnect that persisted off-air.

Howard Stern’s Criticism

Shock jock Howard Stern publicly voiced his criticism of Ripa multiple times. Stern accused her of mistreating her co-hosts, notably Strahan and Philbin. On his SiriusXM show, Stern openly disapproved of Ripa’s reaction to Strahan’s departure, stating, “[You] can’t play hooky on your own show.”

Stern further suggested that Ripa had neglected Philbin’s legacy, advocating for more regular recognition of the show’s former iconic host.

This critique is notable, given that Stern and Ripa previously had an amicable relationship, with Ripa even attending Stern’s wedding, officiated by her husband Mark Consuelos.

Rosie O’Donnell Calls Out Ripa

Actress and former talk show host Rosie O’Donnell also took issue with Ripa, labeling her “mean” in the 2019 tell-all book, “Ladies Who Punch.”

O’Donnell’s criticism stemmed from an incident involving singer Clay Aiken, who briefly co-hosted “Live.” Ripa accused Aiken of inappropriate behavior after he playfully covered her mouth during a segment.

O’Donnell called Ripa’s comments “homophobic,” suggesting her reaction would differ if Aiken’s sexuality were not in question. Although O’Donnell later apologized, she noted the damage had been done, with Ripa subsequently distancing herself.

Megyn Kelly: Rivalry or Misunderstanding?

In 2017, former Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly’s move to NBC placed her directly against “Live with Kelly and Ryan.” The competition sparked rumors of a rivalry, though Ripa dismissed such speculation, claiming that “Live” didn’t compete directly with other programs.

Despite gossip suggesting tension, no explicit feud materialized publicly, though NBC’s cancellation of Megyn Kelly’s show after a year fueled further speculation.

The Mysterious Breakup with Jessica Seinfeld

Once inseparable, Ripa and Jessica Seinfeld’s friendship mysteriously dissolved after years of close association, including family vacations and joint celebrations.

Blind Gossip revealed the two had ceased communication entirely, creating awkwardness among mutual friends who felt compelled to choose sides. Neither Ripa nor Seinfeld publicly addressed their falling out, leaving fans and media puzzled.

Clashing with Bachelor Nation

Ripa’s outspoken criticism of the reality series “The Bachelor” also sparked backlash from franchise insiders. Ripa denounced the show for its portrayal of women competing for a man’s attention, calling it “gross” and “disgusting.”

Host Chris Harrison and show creator Mike Fleiss publicly rebuked her, leading to online confrontations involving celebrities like Ellen Pompeo defending Ripa. The controversy escalated with former “Bachelor” star Colton Underwood also engaging briefly before downplaying the incident.

Pitbull Controversy with Kaley Cuoco and Wil Wheaton

Another dispute arose when Ripa suggested that gangster-owned dogs in a movie scenario must naturally be dangerous pit bulls. Animal advocates, including actors Kaley Cuoco and Wil Wheaton, criticized Ripa for perpetuating negative stereotypes about pit bulls.

Despite social media uproar, Cuoco later clarified there was no lasting feud, emphasizing her enduring friendship with Ripa.

A Public Figure Amid Controversies

Kelly Ripa’s controversies, although numerous, have seldom impacted her career negatively. Her enduring popularity as a daytime host reflects the complex balance of professional charisma and behind-the-scenes tensions common in entertainment.

Despite the drama, Ripa remains an influential and beloved figure in daytime television, navigating controversies while maintaining her prominent media presence.