Michael Strahan used to work with Kelly Ripa before.(Image via Michael Le Brecht II/ABC via Getty)

Michael Strahan, the former NFL star turned television host, may find his professional life getting complicated once more, as he prepares to work near his former co-host Kelly Ripa for the first time since their infamous fallout in 2016.

Strahan and Ripa were a fan-favorite duo on Live! with Kelly and Michael from 2012 until 2016. Their chemistry was undeniable, and they quickly became one of the most popular television pairings. However, things took a turn when Strahan abruptly left the show to join Good Morning America. The decision came as a shock to Ripa and their fans, and speculations of a rift between the two hosts began to swirl. While neither party openly discussed the tensions at the time, Ripa later revealed in an interview with Variety that she was hurt by Strahan’s sudden departure, saying, “I didn’t kick up a fuss; it wasn’t a big thing; I was just like, I’m not doing this. If I’m not worthy of a discussion, if I’m not worthy of you running this conversation by me — it was outrageous.”

Strahan’s career has certainly flourished since then, with his successful transition to co-hosting Good Morning America and maintaining a high profile in the media. However, it seems that the unresolved tensions between him and Ripa may resurface when Strahan’s Good Morning America team relocates to a new studio in downtown Manhattan next month. The new facility, located just feet away from Live with Kelly and Mark, where Ripa and her husband Mark Consuelos host their show, will put Strahan and Ripa in close proximity once again.

According to sources reported by The New York Post, “They will be feet away from each other — he will be able to smell her perfume.” The proximity has raised concerns among staff members, as there is speculation that the two do not communicate or speak with each other, and plans have been made to ensure that Strahan and Ripa do not cross paths.

However, an ABC representative quickly shot down these rumors, stating in an email that, “There is absolutely no truth to this – both Kelly and Michael are consummate professionals and are excited to continue to co-host their top-rated shows in our new state of the art studios.” Despite this official response, the tension surrounding the situation has continued to simmer, with both Strahan and Ripa staying silent on the issue and continuing with their respective professional commitments.

The Aftermath of Their 2016 Fallout

The fallout between Strahan and Ripa remains one of the most talked-about moments in recent television history. Fans were left heartbroken when Strahan left the show so suddenly, and Ripa’s response only added to the drama. Many people were surprised by Strahan’s departure, as the duo seemed to have a strong partnership, both on and off the screen. Ripa’s candid remarks about the situation in 2016 revealed just how blindsided she had been, and it was clear that she felt betrayed by Strahan’s decision to leave without informing her beforehand.

While Strahan’s career continued to thrive after the departure, particularly with his role on Good Morning America, it seems the personal rift between him and Ripa was never fully healed. The upcoming change in studio locations has now reignited speculation about the state of their relationship, with many wondering if working in such close proximity will lead to uncomfortable encounters.

Strahan’s Personal Life and Family Support

In contrast to the public drama, Strahan’s personal life has been a source of support and strength, particularly in recent years. Strahan has been a pillar of support for his daughter, Isabella Strahan, who battled cancer. Isabella’s recovery and subsequent return to college in 2024 have been major milestones in the Strahan family’s journey. Isabella, who now attends the University of Southern California to complete her bachelor’s degree in business, has spoken publicly about her cancer experience, with Strahan by her side throughout the process. His commitment to his children, particularly his daughter, has highlighted his unwavering dedication to his family, despite any potential tensions in his professional life.

Strahan’s ability to balance his career with his family responsibilities has earned him praise from those who know him best. His supportive nature, particularly towards Isabella during her battle with cancer, shows a side of Strahan that many fans may not be as familiar with—a side that is deeply committed to his loved ones, no matter the personal or professional challenges that may arise.

Looking Ahead: Strahan and Ripa’s Future Encounters

As Strahan and Ripa prepare to share a workspace once again, there are still many questions about how their relationship will evolve. Will the tension from their 2016 fallout affect their interactions, or have years of professional success and personal growth allowed them to put their differences aside? It remains to be seen whether the two will be able to work together smoothly, especially given the proximity of their new studios.

In the meantime, both Strahan and Ripa continue to focus on their individual careers, with Ripa and Consuelos’ Live with Kelly and Mark maintaining its place as a popular daytime talk show, and Strahan continuing his successful role at Good Morning America. While it may not be the first time the two have shared space since their fallout, their ability to coexist professionally will be a topic of interest for fans and media alike.

The public’s fascination with the Strahan-Ripa dynamic, particularly following their rocky history, shows how personal relationships in the public eye can shape perceptions, even years after the initial fallout. Whether their professional paths will cross again in any meaningful way remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Strahan and Ripa have left an indelible mark on daytime television. Their upcoming encounters will likely be watched closely, as fans continue to wonder if time has healed the wounds from their past disagreements.