Where Is Kelly Ripa? Everything You Need to Know About Her Absence from Live with Kelly and Mark

The Short Answer

Kelly Ripa is recovering from gum surgery at home. She hasn’t been on the show since late July, but don’t worry—she’s doing fine! You’ll see her face again soon, though there’s a little "TV magic" involved with the timing.

Why Is Kelly Missing from the Show?

She Had Gum Graft Surgery

On Monday, July 27, her husband and co-host Mark Consuelos shared the news:

• Kelly had a gum graft (a common dental surgery)
• She needs to rest her mouth completely—doctor’s orders: no talking!
• Mark said she’s "doing great" but it’s painful, even for someone who famously skips Novocaine at the dentist!

IMPORTANT POINT
A gum graft is when a dentist takes healthy gum tissue and moves it to cover exposed tooth roots. It helps with sensitivity, stops gums from receding further, and improves oral health. Think of it like a little "patch" for your gums.

She Put It Off for 5 Years!

Mark revealed Kelly had been delaying this surgery for five years, joking:

"I didn’t think I’d still be on the air in five years!"

Who’s Been Filling In? (The Rotating Guest Co-Hosts)

While Kelly recovers, Mark has had a new celebrity partner every day. Here’s the lineup so far:

Week 1 (July 27–31)

• Kevin Jonas (Monday)
• Mila Kunis (Tuesday)
• Pamela Adlon (Wednesday)
• Scott Foley (Thursday)

Week 2 (August 3–7)

• Sarah Chalke (Monday, Aug 3)
• Jenna Dewan (Tuesday, Aug 4)
• Déjà Vu (the show’s DJ/announcer) (Wednesday, Aug 5)
• Carrie Coon (Thursday, Aug 6)
• Michelle Buteau (Friday, Aug 7)

When Will Kelly Be Back?

This is where it gets a little tricky—there are two "returns" happening:

1. You’ll See Her Starting Monday, August 10…

BUT these episodes were taped BEFORE the summer break. They’re "best of" shows with:

• Never-before-aired host chats (recorded earlier)
• Re-airings of celebrity interviews from the past season

2. Her REAL Live Return: Tuesday, September 8

That’s the Season 39 premiere—fresh, new episodes taped live in the NYC studio.
This will be Kelly’s first time back since surgery, and likely when she’ll share how she’s feeling.

How Is Kelly Recovering?

Mark shared some recovery details:

• Soft foods only (think applesauce, mashed potatoes, smoothies)
• No straws (suction can mess up the healing)
• Don’t touch or peek at the surgery spot!
• She’s figured out how to talk a tiny bit without moving her bottom lip
• She’s gotten tons of love and messages from fans—her spirits are high!

Quick Recap: The Timeline

Summary

• Kelly Ripa is okay! She’s healing from gum graft surgery at home.
• Mark Consuelos is hosting with a fun parade of celebrity guests.
• You’ll see Kelly on TV starting August 10, but those are pre-recorded shows.
• Her real, live return is September 8 for the Season 39 premiere.
• Gum grafts are common, helpful procedures—Kelly just needed extra recovery time because talking is her job!

FAQ

What exactly is a gum graft?

A gum graft is a dental surgery where a dentist takes healthy gum tissue (usually from the roof of your mouth) and attaches it where gums have pulled back. It covers exposed tooth roots, reduces sensitivity, and protects your teeth.

Why can’t Kelly talk?

Talking moves your lips, jaw, and gums. After gum surgery, the new tissue needs to stay perfectly still to heal—like a bandage that can’t be peeled off. Even small movements could ruin the results.

Is Kelly leaving the show?

Nope! This is just a medical leave. She’ll be back full-time starting September 8 for the new season.

Why are there episodes with Kelly in August if she’s recovering?

TV shows often tape multiple episodes in advance. The August 10+ shows were recorded before her surgery during the regular season. They’re being aired now during the planned summer break.

Who is Déjà Vu?

Déjà Vu is the show’s longtime DJ and announcer. He’s part of the Live family and stepped up to co-host for a day—how cool is that?

Live with Kelly and Mark airs weekdays in syndication. Check your local listings for time and channel.