Michael Strahan said goodbye to Kelly Ripa and Live! With Kelly and Michael on the air Friday, but after the show both he and Kelly addressed his departure one more time.
"I've loved watching you evolve. I really think you're so terrific, and there's nothing you can't do," Kelly told Michael in front of the studio audience. "I mean from hosting this show to going over to Good Morning America, to doing a role in Magic Mike to ripping off your clothes...you can do it all. With that I just want you to know this is always your home base. You always have a place to come and have a thanksgiving with your dysfunctional family."
Strahan's final episode was a low-key affair, there were montages of the co-hosts' past adventures together and emotional moments, but by no means was it a grand affair. A source previously told E! News that Michael wanted it to be a regular episode.
"He doesn't need hoopla. He appreciates everyone's efforts but it's not something he expects or needs," the source said. And, as Strahan confirmed on Friday's show, "I don't like a big to-do about it."
That didn't stop him from getting emotional after the show. In response to Kelly's humorous yet heartfelt speech, Michael said, "I really do have to thank Kelly. I mean you changed my life. You really have...it was amazing and you are incredible. The show is going to continue to be great, so you guys, continue to watch the show," he said.
He also addressed the audience and the Live! staff. "I just want to thank you for the last four years. It's been life changing. I love everybody," he continued. "As I said I'm not done I just have to wake up a little bit earlier and work a little bit longer, but I really appreciate everybody and thank you all so much.
"And to the staff and everybody, I love you guys. You guys have taken care of me and I'll never forget it."
Kelly and Michael both wore black Friday, which some social media users said made it feel like a funeral. Michael even joked that he wasn't dying; He's just moving over to a different franchise in the same family. But all joking aside, Michael described his last day as "bittersweet," and closed out the taping with a giant hug and kiss for Kelly.
ABC hasn't chosen a new host just yet, but there are already fill-ins in place including Jussie Smollett, Cedric the Entertainer, Daniel Dae Kim, Fred Savage, Seal and Andy Cohen.