Kelly Ripa Temporarily Off ‘Live’ After Painful Gum‑Graft Surgery

Daytime‑talk‑show host Kelly Ripa underwent a gum‑graft procedure to treat receding gums, a surgery her dentist had recommended five years earlier. The operation was described by her husband and co‑host Mark Consuelos as “painful” and has left Ripa unable to speak during recovery. Consuelos announced her absence on a Monday episode of “Live with Kelly and Mark,” speaking with guest Kevin (Nick) Jonas. He explained that doctors have ordered her not to talk, to eat soft foods, avoid straws and refrain from touching the wound. Ripa sent her love to viewers and is expected to return after about a week of healing. The host, known for her conversational style and unusually high tolerance for dental pain, is recovering at home while guest hosts fill in for the show.