Kelly Ripa turned heads at the 97th Academy Awards, making a bold fashion statement that quickly became one of the night’s most talked-about looks. Accompanied by her husband, actor Mark Consuelos, the television personality stunned on the red carpet in a striking coral gown that accentuated her toned figure and elegant demeanor.

Her dress featured a daring halter neckline, draped fabric crossing over her chest, leaving her shoulders completely exposed. The fitted bodice accentuated her waist before flowing seamlessly into a pleated skirt with a high slit, revealing just enough to add drama to her ensemble. The gown’s fabric cascaded into a soft train behind her, adding a touch of effortless glamour. With her toned arms on full display, the sleeveless design highlighted her physique, a testament to her dedication to fitness. She completed the look with a sleek updo, delicate drop earrings, and understated makeup that enhanced her natural beauty with a subtle nude lip and accentuated eyes.

As always, Mark Consuelos provided the perfect complement to his wife’s striking presence. The actor opted for a classic black double-breasted tuxedo, pairing it with a crisp white shirt and a black bow tie. He added a touch of subtle color with a small green pin on his lapel, blending timeless elegance with modern detail. Together, the couple exuded sophistication, drawing admiration from photographers and fans alike.

Ripa’s bold fashion choice didn’t go unnoticed online, sparking a wave of reactions across social media platforms. Fans marveled at her toned physique, with many taking to Facebook to express their admiration. “I love Kelly’s toned arms!” one user exclaimed, while another added, “Look at her arms, so jealous!!” Many echoed similar sentiments, praising her for maintaining such an impressive figure.

However, as is often the case with high-profile appearances, not all feedback was purely positive. Some users commented on her tan, speculating whether she had visited a tanning salon or opted for a spray tan, with one remarking, “Too dark for this time of year.” Others noted a perceived difference in her appearance, with one user writing, “Doesn’t even look like Kelly. Mark looks handsome, though.” As with any red-carpet moment, opinions varied, with some loving her bold choices and others preferring a more traditional look.

Instagram also saw a flurry of responses to Ripa’s Oscars appearance, with many fans praising her fitness and style. “Those arms though… goals!” one admirer wrote. Meanwhile, another user was more critical, commenting, “That’s a lot of makeup and extensions!” One observer added, “Wow, she looks very old with all that makeup. Aging is beautiful, but she looks like a different person.”

The standout orange chiffon gown, part of the Zuhair Murad Ready-To-Wear Resort 2025 collection, was undoubtedly one of the evening’s most memorable fashion moments. To complete her ensemble, the 54-year-old television host accessorized with exquisite pieces from Stephen Russell Jewelry, a detail she later shared on her Instagram account.

Beyond their red carpet presence, Ripa and Consuelos once again took center stage for their highly anticipated After the Oscars Show, an annual special that has become a staple for fans. The couple broadcasted live from a small backstage area at the Dolby Theatre, offering immediate reactions from award winners and an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the night’s most significant moments.

Speaking to ABC7 about their experience, Consuelos shared his excitement about meeting some of the most admired figures in the entertainment industry at such a pivotal moment in their careers. “I’m always excited to meet so many people I’ve admired over the years, especially at the time when they’ve won something so massive and important,” he said. Ripa, equally enthusiastic, added, “We have no idea who’s going to come back! We can’t hear, we can’t see, and then suddenly the winner is right there standing in front of us.”

The couple also reminisced about one of their favorite past Oscar moments, recalling the time Samuel L. Jackson casually joined them backstage to watch the show. As Ripa explained, their cozy backstage area includes snacks, drinks, and even tequila, creating a relaxed atmosphere where celebrities feel comfortable hanging out and unwinding.

In addition to their usual hosting duties, Ripa gave fans a sneak peek at one of the special tributes planned for the night. Inspired by the upcoming Wicked film adaptation, she transformed into Glinda, a look she excitedly showcased on Instagram. “I was like, no way, I’m too old. You can’t make me look like this beautiful young movie star. And they did it!” she gushed.

Though Ripa and Consuelos have become fixtures on the Oscars red carpet, Kelly admitted to having a personal dream—seeing her husband attend the event one day as a nominee. “I have that dream for Mark all the time,” she revealed. “Every time he walks the red carpet with me, I look at him and think, ‘You’re going to be walking here one day for a whole different reason.’” Consuelos, ever the supportive husband, playfully responded, “That’s why I married her.”

Leading up to the big night, the couple had made some behind-the-scenes adjustments to prepare for their broadcast, even upgrading their backstage TV for a better viewing experience. Ripa also hinted at their post-Oscars routine, revealing that after wrapping up the event, they planned to catch a short nap before going live on-air at 6 a.m. “We’ve got an amazing show planned,” she teased.

During their post-show discussions, they reflected on the previous day’s unexpected earthquake in Los Angeles. Ripa admitted she hadn’t felt it, prompting a humorous exchange with Consuelos, who joked that if she had noticed anything, she would have been on her own—he had been sound asleep.

While Ripa’s Oscars look dominated headlines, earlier this year, she and Consuelos made news for an entirely different reason. On January 21, 2025, Consuelos was absent from their daytime talk show, Live with Kelly and Mark, leaving fans curious about his whereabouts. Stepping in as his temporary replacement was journalist Anderson Cooper, a choice that delighted some viewers while disappointing others.

Social media reactions to Cooper’s guest-hosting stint were mixed. Many fans praised his performance, with one writing, “I love it when he substitutes for Mark!” Another viewer added, “Anderson and Andy are the only comparable subs for Mark. The best!” Some fans were quick to express their admiration for Cooper, calling him “adorable.” However, others weren’t as thrilled, with one commenting, “Ain’t the same without Mark… that was like having Ryan back.”

Speculation over Consuelos’ absence only grew when he posted a throwback photo on Instagram, fueling curiosity about whether he had taken a personal day or was involved in another project. While no official explanation was given, his brief departure from the show certainly didn’t go unnoticed.

Interestingly, Ripa had previously revealed that if Ryan Seacrest had declined the co-hosting role, her top choices would have been Cooper, Andy Cohen, or Consuelos himself. Ultimately, when Seacrest left, her husband became the natural successor, making Live with Kelly and Mark a true family affair.

As Kelly Ripa continues to dazzle audiences on and off the red carpet, her ability to spark conversation remains unmatched. Whether it’s her bold fashion choices, her dynamic hosting skills, or the unwavering support she shows her husband, she remains a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.