Ryan Seacrest's Unexpected Comeback on 'Live': What Really Prompted His Return After 2 Months?

Ryan Seacrest ABC/Mark Seliger

Ryan Seacrest made a surprising return to Live, just two months after his departure. However, fans should not get their hopes up for a permanent comeback. On the Tuesday, June 20, episode, the American Idol host appeared in pre-taped segments that will continue throughout the rest of the week. These segments will include trivia, unseen footage, and memorable moments from before Seacrest left the show.

Seacrest will make another appearance on a later episode of the show while Kelly Ripa's team takes their summer break. Throughout the summer, guest hosts such as Anderson Cooper, Andy Cohen, Maria Menounos, and others will also be joining Mark Consuelos.

Ripa, 52, and Seacrest became co-hosts on Live in 2017, forming a partnership that lasted for six years. However, in February, the Georgia native revealed his decision to depart from the talk show.

"During the past six years, working with Kelly has been an incredible opportunity and one of the most fulfilling experiences of my professional life. She has been an exceptional partner, a true friend, and a trusted confidant. Although our paths will continue to cross, I will deeply miss our mornings together," he expressed in a statement, reflecting on his time on Live and acknowledging it as a truly remarkable journey.

In her own statement, the author of Live Wire shared, "Ryan's unmatched energy, unwavering passion, and genuine love for the entertainment industry are truly remarkable." Seacrest enthusiastically expressed his excitement to hand over the reins to Consuelos, who is also 52 years old.

Seacrest officially resigned in April, making way for the Riverdale actor to take over on set. A month later, the Emmy winner made a guest appearance on Live and humorously acknowledged the show's new direction.

"I managed to escape just in time," he playfully remarked in May. "I must admit, I've been keeping up with the show and you guys are doing an amazing job together. I absolutely adore Mark's teasing, the promos I see, and the games you play."

The producer humorously mentioned that he has found a newfound appreciation for time since departing from the morning show. He described his new daytime routine, which involves waking up to the gentle sound of the alarm, strolling through the forest to search for coffee beans, roasting them, and preparing a homemade almond milk latte. Before he knows it, it's already noon.