In a deeply moving moment on Live With Kelly and Mark, longtime producer Michael Gelman was honored by cohosts Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos at the prestigious Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame Awards. The tribute left both Gelman and Ripa visibly emotional, highlighting the enduring bond and mutual admiration forged over four decades on the iconic daytime show.
Michael Gelman has been a cornerstone of the Live franchise for 42 years, guiding its evolution through various eras and hosts—from Regis Philbin and Kathie Lee Gifford to Ryan Seacrest, and now Ripa and Consuelos. His dedication and leadership behind the scenes have ensured the show’s continued relevance and popularity, adapting seamlessly to changing audiences and television landscapes.
At the New York City ceremony, Kelly Ripa expressed heartfelt sentiments as she introduced Gelman’s induction. "You could’ve been inducted into that Hall of Fame 50 times by now," she remarked, emphasizing that the honor was long overdue. Embracing the rare opportunity to dress up for the event, Ripa joked about how special the night was, making clear just how much respect she has for Gelman’s decades of hard work.
Mark Consuelos also praised Gelman’s skill in maintaining the show’s consistent charm and spirit, despite the inherent challenges of daytime television. "When something looks easy, it’s usually because it’s really, really not," Consuelos said. "Michael Gelman, you’ve mastered the art of keeping this show relevant, fun, happy, with different iterations."
During Gelman’s acceptance speech, the producer became emotional reflecting on his extensive career and the unwavering support from his family, a testament to the personal sacrifices intertwined with his professional life. On air, he acknowledged the vital contributions of the entire Live team while Ripa reminded him that his leadership at the top has been instrumental in retaining a loyal and talented staff, including some members who have affectionately referred to Ripa as "the new girl" despite her 25 years on the program.
Concluding the touching tribute, Kelly and Mark reiterated their pride in Gelman’s achievements and the well-deserved recognition he received. This poignant moment not only celebrated an extraordinary career but also underscored the strong camaraderie and appreciation within the Live family.
As Live With Kelly and Mark continues to air weekday mornings, the heartfelt acknowledgment of Michael Gelman’s enduring impact serves as a powerful reminder of the passion and dedication fueling one of television’s most beloved talk shows.
