Michael Strahan Leaving 'Live!' for 'Good Morning America'? Host Addresses Rumors On-Air
Michael Strahan could leave "Live! With Kelly and Michael" for "Good Morning America," according to reports this week. Host Josh Elliot left ABC's "GMA" earlier this week for rival network NBC, leaving a space open for Strahan, who addressed the rumors Wednesday.
Michael Strahan, 42, spoke to his co-host Kelly Ripa on "Live!" about the pervasive rumors— he had seen the news via his smartphone and found it very "surprising." His co-host, though, wanted to know the truth: is he leaving or not?
"If I read the papers, I am," Strahan replied. "But this is my home. I'm right here on 'Live,' OK?"
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"We just want to know how many cups of coffee we need to have ready by the time you get here," joked, referring to their 9 a.m. starting time.
I'll have to "be smart about it," Strahan replied, saying he wouldn't be able to "do an everyday thing" at the other show.
Strahan, the former New York Giants defensive end, has been rumored to have been talking to ABC for months about doing a part-time gig on the show. Currently the panel is a bit lopsided Robin Roberts, Amy Robach, Lara Spencer, Ginger Zee and George Stephanopoulos.
The deal between "GMA" and Strahan could be announced later on this week, according to a CNN report. ABC has not yet addressed the news, however.
Elliott is headed to NBC as a host and contributor at NBC Sports. Strahan could add his own flavor to "GMA" between 7 a.m. and 8:15 a.m., but not as a replacement for Elliott.
"He's not being brought in to replace Josh," a source at ABC told People magazine. "He's not taking anyone's spot."
