Kelly Ripa Mocks Herself On Being Named Disney Legend

According to SAEDNEWS, Kelly Ripa has received the prestigious Disney Legend Award, a testament to her remarkable contributions to the company over her impressive 30-year career.

During her acceptance speech, the 53-year-old actress and daytime television host opened with some lighthearted humor aimed at her former co-star Ryan Seacrest, who presented her with the award. “Thank you so much, and Ryan, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I’m just so glad that you finally found something else to host,” she quipped, playfully referencing Seacrest's long list of hosting gigs.

Ripa also took a moment to congratulate her fellow honorees that evening, which included renowned talents such as Miley Cyrus, Angela Bassett, and James Cameron, among others. In her heartfelt speech, she expressed gratitude to key figures in her career, including Disney CEO Bob Iger, television executive Dana Walden, her husband Mark Consuelos, and of course, Ryan Seacrest.

As she addressed the audience at the D23 event, Ripa humorously acknowledged the skepticism some might have about her receiving the award. “I know what you’re thinking. Why her? What has she ever done? She doesn’t even go here,” she joked. “But to you, I say, you sound just like my family.”

However, in a notable omission, Ripa chose not to mention her former Live! co-host Regis Philbin, nor did she acknowledge longtime producer Michael Gelman or Agnes Nixon, the creator of All My Children, the soap opera that launched her career. This choice comes in light of Ripa's candid discussions about her strained relationship with Philbin, especially following his retirement and the lack of communication that ensued.

Kelly Ripa's recognition as a Disney Legend highlights her impressive journey and enduring legacy in the entertainment industry, solidifying her status as a beloved figure in television history.