Michael Strahan's last day as co-host of "Live! With Kelly and Michael" on Friday rose above the drama that previously surrounded the announcement of his departure, bringing the duo's run to a heartfelt end.
Ripa was blindsided last month by news that Strahan was leaving the show for a full-time gig on "Good Morning America," but on Friday the co-hosts showed "no real evidence" of the reported tension that followed,
The Washington Post reported.
The show intro welcomed the audience to, "Join us to raise a glass to remember laughs and fun times we shared on Michael Strahan's flashback farewell Friday,"
The Hollywood Reporter noted.
As the show began, Ripa pulled out Strahan's chair for him and embraced him.
"It is your final day on the show. We all came today to celebrate you. And we want to remind the audience that there is a run on discounted merchandise at the kiosk. For these collectors items!" she joked, holding up their Kelly and Michael mugs.
Strahan was originally slated to remain on the show until September, but an earlier departure allows an on-air search for a new co-host to begin sooner.
"It's bittersweet. Of course you get nervous," Strahan said. "This is a moment I didn't anticipate being here, at least not at this point. I'm not dying. I'm still in the family and still available to come back as co-host."
The farewell show included a compilation of Strahan's greatest moments on the show, with clips of him laughing, playing sports, and being silly.
People magazine described the tribute as "sweet and touching."
Ripa presented Strahan with gifts, including a bronzed pair of heels he wore on the show and a photo book.
"So you know no matter where you go, you're always here with us," Ripa said. "Look at all we did together! We did everything together."
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