Kelly Ripa Doesn’t Keep in Touch With Regis Philbin

Kelly Ripa, host of "Live! with Kelly and Michael," recently told the Hollywood Reporter she doesn’t keep in touch with her former co-host Regis Philbin who shared a stage with her for nearly 12 years on "Live! with Regis and Kelly."

Ripa, 42, was interviewed this week during an event celebrating the magazine's "35 Most Important People In Media." She and current co-host Michael Strahan, a former New York Giants linebacker, were included.

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Ripa was asked how 41-year-old Strahan compared to the now 81-year-old Philbin.

"Well they’re both incredible storytellers," Ripa said. "They are both fiercely competitive, and they’re both incredible football players."

Ripa may have been joking about Philbin playing football, considering his slender build and height. Philbin, however, is known as an outspoken supporter of alma mater Notre Dame's football team.

Ripa added that Philbin has a "good arm" and Michael "can tackle anybody at any time. So watch out."

Asked if she kept in touch with Philbin, Ripa responded, "I haven't seen him, no."

Strahan was selected as the show's co-host in September 2012 after a lengthy stretch of guest co-hosts were auditioned for the position.

Ripa was also asked her opinion of disgraced former Rep. Anthony Weiner trying for a political comeback in the New York City mayor's race.

"Sure why not," said Ripa, who then relayed the question to her husband, actor Mark Consuelos, who was standing beside her.

"C'mon . . . That's a really bad idea," said Consuelos. "Save everybody's time and money. It's ridiculous."

Ripa then quipped, "I love a political Cinderella story."

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Ripa was also asked if she watched any other morning shows.

"I tend to watch Good Morning America because it's on in the makeup room as I'm getting ready," she said. "People like to feel good, and they like a little energy a little pep in the mornings. I think that's pretty much [why people watch the show]."

Ripa's show and "Good Morning America" are both on ABC.

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