Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos previewed their upcoming segment, ‘Live With Kelly and Mark: After the Oscars,’ on the red carpet at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on March 15, 2026. The 98th Academy Awards began at 7 p.m. ET, with Ripa and Consuelos set to go live from the Oscars stage at 9 a.m. the following day.
During their red carpet appearance, Ripa expressed excitement, stating, “Tonight is the calm before the storm,” and added, “Our open is epic.” The couple will feature guests like Wyclef Jean and Andra Day, who are part of the ‘After the Oscars Show’ lineup. Carson Kressley will discuss the night’s biggest fashions, while Leanne Morgan will highlight the most memorable moments.
However, fans noted a perceived disconnect between Ripa and Consuelos during the event. The couple engaged in what some described as weak public displays of affection, including an awkward finger-hold. This has led to speculation about the status of their relationship, which remains unclear. Details remain unconfirmed.
Ripa and Consuelos, who have three children that moved out of their New York townhouse in 2025, previously boasted about their newfound freedom, with Ripa humorously claiming she could be nude anywhere in their home. Despite this, the couple’s interaction at the Oscars raised eyebrows.
Conan O’Brien hosted the 2026 Oscars, while Matt Friend served as the red-carpet correspondent for ‘Live’s’ show. Ripa remarked on the unique experience of interviewing winners immediately after their Academy Award victories, saying, “Talking to people when they have just won an Academy Award is a really singular moment.”
As the evening unfolded, the atmosphere at the Dolby Theatre was filled with anticipation for the awards and the subsequent coverage by Ripa and Consuelos. The couple’s dynamic will be closely watched as they navigate their professional and personal lives in the public eye.
