Kelly Ripa Celebrates 15 Years as a LIVE Host With Michael Strahan, Other Stars and Family

The 45-year-old made her debut on the show in 2001 as Regis Philbin's co-host

By Corinne Heller Feb 12, 2016 4:15 PMTags

Can you believe Kelly Ripa has been hosting LIVE for 15 years?

The 45-year-old celebrated her "crystal" anniversary on the ABC daytime talk show Friday with current co-host Michael Strahan, who presented her with a slew of surprises, including appearances from other celebrities, her husband and their three kids.

"We're all dressed up for you," Strahan said. "We have some sweets for you. A little Champagne-"

"Booze!" Ripa said, raising her glass.

"Cheers to 15 years!" he said, as they toasted.

"I'm not going to lie, this is a little bit like attending your own funeral," Ripa said.

This marked Ripa's 3,620th appearance on the show. She debuted on LIVE in February 2001 when it was called LIVE with Regis and Kelly. Regis Philbin, the show's veteran host, left the series in 2011 after 28 years. Strahan joined the show in 2012 and the name was changed to what it is today—LIVE with Kelly and Michael

ABC

The episode featured surprise celebrity guests who appeared on the show to congratulate her, such as Neil Patrick HarrisOprah Winfrey and Judge Judy's Judy Sheindlin. The latter two appeared via video message. Mark Consuelos, Ripa's husband of 19 years—or, as she called him, her "baby daddy"—also made an appearance, while their three children—Michael, 18, Lola, 14, and Joaquin, 12—gave her a sweet shout-out via video.

"Congratulations on your anniversary," Lola said.

"You're the best and you deserve a celebration," Joaquin added.

Strahan also presented her with a gift from people who work on the show, a gold and diamond necklace that bears the word "Live."

ABC

#KellysSweet15 Haha 15 is the #Diamond anniversary. #MichaelStrahan puts the diamond "LIVE" necklace on #KellyRipa!

A video posted by LIVE with Kelly and Michael (@kellyandmichael) on