Kelly Ripa startled her audience during a recent broadcast of "Live with Kelly and Mark" with a conversation about divorce, surprising not just viewers but also her co-host and husband, Mark Consuelos.
The discussion brought varied responses from fans, ranging from concern to an appreciation of the hosts' relatability, Mail Online reported.
During a segment on their morning show, Kelly brought up a magazine article she had read concerning 'gray divorce,' a term that refers to the increasing rate of divorces among individuals aged 50 and above. The topic seemed to catch Mark off guard, leading to a candid exchange between the couple.
Kelly, who is 54 years old, casually mentioned the subject on live television, evoking surprise from Mark, aged 53. This unexpected on-air discussion sparked a significant reaction from their audience.
The concept of 'gray divorce' has gained attention since the term was coined in 2004. It highlights how divorce rates are rising among older adults, corroborated by statistics from 2019.
Audience reactions on social media were mixed. Some viewers expressed empathy, noting the difficulties faced by older adults who divorce, while others appreciated the openness and humor surrounding the topic.
Kelly and Mark's relationship has been in the public eye since they first met in 1994 during Mark's audition for the TV show "All My Children."
The couple quickly formed a bond and eloped to Las Vegas on May 1, 1996. They share three adult children together: Michael, 26, Lola, 22, and Joaquin, 20.
Their long-term partnership and family-focused life provide a backdrop against which the unexpected discussion of 'gray divorce' occurred.
Kelly explained that when she brought up the article topic with Mark, he reacted defensively. Mark recounted his surprise, remarking about how enthusiastic Kelly was about the piece she read.
Some viewers critiqued the manner in which Kelly introduced the topic, suggesting it could make Mark feel uneasy. "She used the article to make him feel insecure," one viewer commented, signaling the potential risks such a conversation could pose to a relationship.
Others saw a humorous aspect, with one viewer noting that Mark appeared nervous, a sentiment echoed by another viewer who appreciated the lightheartedness.
Yet, there are those who find the couple relatable, despite the occasional uncomfortable subject. Their candid discussions are often seen as a window into their real-life dynamics.
In a previous interview, Mark shared his philosophy on relationships, emphasizing the importance of shared dreams and goals. For Mark and Kelly, conversations about the future, even those involving potential grandchildren, serve to strengthen their bond.
Their focus on dreaming together and designing their life for future generations highlights a positive aspect of their dynamic, showing commitment rather than discord.
Mark has openly recognized his wife Kelly’s patience in interviews, attributing it as a key factor for their enduring marriage. "Even though I know I'm highly annoying," Mark joked, "she is extremely patient.
He also emphasized the mutual support they provide each other, saying that the word "allegiance" doesn't fully capture their commitment to one another.
This sentiment reflects the couple’s genuine relationship, offering viewers an insight into how they manage personal and professional challenges together on and off screen.
The remarks Kelly made on the show's broadcast touched on relevant and thought-provoking topics, echoing societal trends of increasing divorces among those over 50.
Regardless of the varied audience reactions, the couple's ability to navigate these kinds of conversations publicly speaks to their relatability and transparency.
While the public may differ in opinions about their discussions, Kelly and Mark continue to captivate fans, fostering both appreciation and debate among their diverse audience.
