On January 21, 2025, Anderson Cooper stepped in as a guest co-host on Live with Kelly and Mark, filling in for Mark Consuelos, who was notably absent. Alongside Kelly Ripa, Cooper interviewed Naomi Watts about her new book, Dare I Say It: Everything I Wish I’d Known About Menopause, and Ken Jennings, who discussed the latest season of Celebrity Jeopardy. While the reason for Consuelos’ absence wasn’t disclosed, fans of the show had varied reactions to his substitute.

Many viewers were excited to see Cooper in the co-host seat, expressing their appreciation for his charm and presence. One fan commented, “I love it when he substitutes for Mark!” while another wrote, “Anderson and Andy are the only comparable subs for Mark. The best!!” Others noted his charisma, with some simply stating, “Anderson is adorable” and “.” One viewer, initially unsure about Cooper hosting, shared, “I wasn’t sure how I’d feel with him hosting, but he was great!”

However, some fans missed Consuelos, with one asking, “Where is Mark?” and another lamenting, “Ain’t the same without el Mark…that was like having Ryan back [sic].” Others were less enthusiastic about guest hosts, with one bluntly stating, “Not a fan of co-host.”

Cooper has filled in as a guest co-host before. In July 2023, he joined Consuelos on the show, where they interviewed Chef Michael Symon. This time, Cooper’s presence sparked curiosity about Consuelos’ whereabouts. Consuelos later shared a photo on his Instagram story, which appeared to be a throwback from the Live with Kelly and Mark set, leaving fans guessing about his current activities.

Consuelos is scheduled to return to Live on January 24, when he and Ripa will welcome guests Lucy Liu and Omari Hardwick. In the meantime, Ripa will co-host with other familiar faces. Andy Cohen is set to join her on January 22 to interview Julia Garner and Morris Chestnut, followed by Carson Kressley on January 23, who will discuss Darren Criss’ new Broadway show Maybe Happy Ending.

In 2022, during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Ripa revealed that had Ryan Seacrest turned down the role of co-host, her top choices would have been Anderson Cooper, Andy Cohen, or her husband, Mark Consuelos. When Seacrest eventually departed, Consuelos stepped into the role, and the couple now co-hosts the show, delighting audiences with their chemistry and engaging interviews.