‘Live! With Kelly’ Launches Nationwide Co-Host Search

Viewers will have the chance to step into Regis Philbin's "Live!" shoes opposite Kelly Ripa — at least for a day, anyway

For those of you who think you're up to filling Regis Philbin's big, big shoes as co-host of "Live!" you may soon have your chance to find out if you're up to snuff.

Syndicated morning staple "Live! With Kelly" launched a nationwide search for a co-host on the talk show, albeit just for one day. Beginning Monday, those with an eye toward capturing Philbin's throne can submit video entries showcasing their hosting skills either by mail, or online at  LiveWithKelly.tv and CohostSearch.com.

The deadline to enter is June 29, with the top 10 semi-finalists being announced on July 9. Of those, the "Live!" audience will choose the top 5 finalists, which will be announced on July 11.

The five finalists will travel to New York during the week of July 16 to try out for the gig, with the final victor taking the stage to co-host with Kelly Ripa on July 24.

Philbin stepped down from "Live!" in January 2011, ending a decades-long run on the show. Since then, his seat has been filled with celebrity guest hosts ranging from Neil Patrick Harris to pro football player and former Kim Kardashian beau Reggie Bush.

"Live!" has aired special co-host weeks in the past — perhaps most notably given the latest search,in 2000, before Ripa was announced as a permanent replacement for Kathie Lee Gifford, the show had a week during which non-celebrities co-hosted with Philbin.

Comments