The couple shares candid moments about marriage and bedtime routines on their daytime talk show
Category: Arts & Culture
In a humorous exchange on the April 1, 2026 episode of Live with Kelly and Mark, Kelly Ripa revealed that her nighttime retainer has become an unexpected barrier to intimacy in her marriage with Mark Consuelos. The couple, who have been married since 1996, shared a lighthearted discussion about how this dental device serves as a visual cue that she is not in the mood for romance.
Ripa, 55, jokingly described the moment when she pops in her retainer, saying, "He hears the retainer pop in, it’s like a chastity belt!" The audience erupted in laughter as she explained that the distinctive clicking sound signals the end of the evening for them. Consuelos, who plays along with the banter, humorously compared himself to a koala, saying, "Sometimes they’re not interested, so they turn their backs and just go to sleep," mimicking the animal's nonchalant approach to rejection.
Mark Consuelos, 52, expressed his agreement with the comparison, adding that he often resigns himself to the situation with a playful twist. "I come to bed with my little eucalyptus leaf," he quipped, capturing the essence of their long-standing chemistry. This playful exchange showcased their humor and highlighted a relatable aspect of long-term relationships.
As the couple discussed koalas, Ripa interjected, "It’s like you!" prompting laughter from both the audience and Consuelos. The conversation turned into a delightful exploration of their bedtime routines, with Ripa mentioning that her retainer has become a recurring topic in their marriage discussions. The couple, who share three adult children, have been refreshingly candid about how their work as co-hosts on daytime television has impacted their personal lives.
Since they began hosting together in 2023, Ripa and Consuelos have had to navigate their intimate schedule around the demands of early morning broadcasts. Ripa noted that their work schedule has was a natural "antidote" to Consuelos's previous preference for morning encounters, allowing them to find humor in their changing dynamics.
"I have a retainer in, I gotta rip that out," Ripa explained during a previous podcast appearance, highlighting how their nightly routines have evolved. Consuelos chimed in, joking about his nasal strips, saying, "It’s like we are the most repulsive, disgusting people." Their candidness about their bedtime quirks resonates with many viewers, making them relatable figures in the world of celebrity.
In an era where many celebrity couples keep their private lives under wraps, Ripa and Consuelos have carved a niche by openly discussing the realities of marriage. Their willingness to address topics like retainers and nasal strips on live television has struck a chord with audiences, who appreciate the authenticity of their relationship.
The couple's playful banter about intimacy barriers and their humorous take on marriage dynamics have made them a beloved duo on daytime television. As they prepare to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary this year, their lighthearted approach to discussing the challenges of married life continues to endear them to fans.
Ripa's retainer has become more than just a dental device; it symbolizes the couple's ability to navigate the ups and downs of married life with humor and grace. As she put it, "When you put it in, it’s like, click, click, click. Alright, guess I’m going to bed." This lighthearted admission reflects their relationship and invites viewers to embrace the quirks that come with long-term partnerships.
As they continue to share their lives on screen, Ripa and Consuelos remind audiences that love and laughter are integral components of a successful marriage. Their discussions about intimate moments, even those involving retainers, serve as a refreshing reminder that relationships require communication, humor, and a willingness to adapt.
With their unique blend of humor and honesty, Ripa and Consuelos have set a new standard for celebrity couples in the public eye. Their candid conversations about intimacy and marriage dynamics entertain and resonate deeply with viewers, making them relatable figures in the often-glamorous world of celebrity. As they navigate their lives together, it’s clear that laughter remains a key ingredient in their enduring partnership.
As they approach their milestone anniversary, fans can expect more lighthearted revelations from this beloved couple who continue to break barriers in the world of television. Their playful discussions about retainers, bedtime routines, and the realities of married life are not just entertaining; they provide a glimpse into the genuine connection that has sustained their relationship for nearly three decades.