Kelly Ripa Spotted For The First Time Since Ditching Michael Strahan On 'Live'
Apr. 21 2016, Published 2:49 p.m. ET
Kelly Ripa kept a stiff upper lip in New York City this week, just one day after calling out of Live With Kelly and Michael! over co-host Michael Strahan's sudden departure.
Kelly Ripa smiles stepping out with Mark Consuelos from their New York home
Staying strong!
Kelly Ripa is all smiles as she heads out in New York City
Drama continues to mount following Michael Strahan's surprise exit from the show, as Ripa is taking at least one week off of work .
Kelly Ripa is all smiles as she heads out in New York City
"Kelly sees this as the ultimate betrayal," an insider told Page Six, while another shared, "There's been a total Ripa meltdown."
Kelly Ripa is all smiles as she heads out in New York City
Ripa's absence from Live With Kelly and Michael! on Wednesday morning was the beginning of her showdown with her co-host, who blindsided her with his abrupt departure for Good Morning America.
Kelly Ripa smiles stepping out with Mark Consuelos from their New York home
"She didn't show up for work and isn't taking anyone's calls," a source said, adding that she, along with the show's executive producer, Michael Gelman, weren't told until shortly before the news was made public.
Kelly Ripa is all smiles as she heads out in New York City
"Kelly didn't want to show up to work and mouth off and say something she would have regretted," another source told the publication. "She is upset and didn't want to take it out on her own staff."
Kelly Ripa is all smiles as she heads out in New York City
While some of Ripa's days off were planned ahead of the shocking announcement, it's clear that the show host has taken more time off as a direct response to Michael's so-called betrayal.
Kelly Ripa is all smiles as she heads out in New York City
In her absence, Strahan delivered a goodbye speech alone on the show, making sure the thank Ripa for all of her support and guidance – too little, too late?
Kelly Ripa smiles stepping out with Mark Consuelos from their New York home
What do you think of Kelly's sudden vacation time? Let us know in the comments below!