“HE VANISHED — ON LIVE TELEVISION.” This morning, the Live with Kelly and Mark studio went into chaos when Mark Consuelos’ chair sat empty in full view of millions — and Kelly walked out alone. Viewers held their breath as the cameras zoomed in on the vacant seat… then suddenly, Steve Patterson appeared, casually sliding into Mark’s spot without a single explanation. Kelly fanned the flames even more, joking that Mark might still be “somewhere on the marathon route, dragging himself across the pavement.” Social media exploded — Where did Mark go? Why didn’t the show address it? One thing is clear: this wasn’t just a substitute host… it was a disappearing act caught live on air.

LIVE WITH KELLY AND MARK: SURPRISE MORNING WITHOUT MARK CONSUELOS — KELLY RIPA FIRES OFF HILARIOUS JOKES AS STEVE PATTERSON STEPS IN

This morning, viewers tuning in to Live with Kelly and Mark were met with an unexpected twist: the seat next to Kelly Ripa was not occupied by her usual co-host — and husband — Mark Consuelos, but by a familiar substitute: Steve Patterson.

With his trademark upbeat energy, Patterson walked onto the stage and immediately exclaimed, “It feels so great to be back!” The studio erupted in applause, setting the tone for a lively broadcast. His easy banter with Kelly kicked off the show with laughter and an undeniable sense of comfort, as though he had never left.

“Did anyone see Mark still running out there somewhere?”

As the show eased into its opening chat, Kelly Ripa wasted no time bringing up Mark’s absence — in classic, deadpan Kelly fashion. Looking toward the audience, which today included several New York City Marathon runners, she threw out a playful jab:

“I see a lot of marathoners here today. Did any of you see Mark still on the course somewhere?”

The studio burst into laughter. Patterson jumped in immediately:

“Yes, has the last person finished yet? Goodness gracious, maybe Mark’s still out there!”

Kelly delivered the punchline effortlessly:

“Yes, the very last person dragged himself across the finish line.”

She never specified where Mark actually was — and perhaps she didn’t need to. With just a few jokes, Kelly turned her co-host’s absence into the comedic highlight of the morning.

According to show representatives, a return date for Mark has not yet been disclosed. (DECIDER has reached out to Live with Kelly and Mark for more information.)

A star-packed episode despite the missing co-host

Mark’s empty seat did nothing to dampen the energy. Kelly and Steve welcomed two high-profile guests: Rami Malek and Lacey Chabert.

Oscar winner Rami Malek appeared composed and introspective as he spoke about his new project. Behind-the-scenes anecdotes flowed effortlessly, prompting Kelly and Steve to burst into laughter several times. Malek’s dry humor and thoughtful reflections made for one of the episode’s standout interviews.

Lacey Chabert — a beloved Hallmark star — brightened the studio with her warm personality as she teased her upcoming holiday film. Her stories about shooting Christmas movies in the middle of summer brought smiles all around, filling the studio with a festive mood.

A moment of inspiration: Hellen Obiri takes the spotlight

The emotional center of the show, however, was the appearance of Hellen Obiri, the winner of this year’s New York City Marathon women’s race held on Sunday (Nov. 2).

Obiri walked onto the stage to thunderous applause from the audience. She shared the emotional journey behind her victory — the early morning training sessions, the mental strength required for elite competition, and the overwhelming moment when she crossed the finish line ahead of thousands of other runners. Her words about discipline and perseverance drew the studio into complete silence.

Kelly looked at her with admiration:

“You inspire me to run… or at least walk faster than usual.”

The room erupted in laughter once again.

Conclusion

Today’s broadcast of Live with Kelly and Mark reminded viewers why the show remains such a favorite: quick wit, warm chemistry, and moments that feel spontaneous and genuinely human.

Even in Mark Consuelos’s absence, Kelly Ripa and Steve Patterson kept the energy high — delivering a morning full of comedy, heart, and inspiration.