by Eugene G.

Created on: October 06, 2008

Kelly Ripa and Kathie Lee Gifford have been a part of daytime television for a very long time. Both ladies bring their unique talents and abilities to the small screen. Kathie Lee is the better singer and storyteller. Kelly is genuinely funny and more down-to-earth. In my opinion, if I had to cast a vote for the better co-host, I would vote for Kelly Ripa.

When Regis Philbin was paired with Kathie Lee, I felt the show suffered. She did not seem to blend with the show's overall format of talk show chatter and silly antics. Regis carried the show for the most part and the only contribution Kathie Lee seemed to make was the usual "put me to sleep" banter about her son Cody. I used to say to myself "Is there anything else she can talk about?" I had not even heard of Kathie Lee until she began co-hosting with Regis. As a viewer, I had no idea about her entertainment or television background. Also, Kathie Lee never really participated in any physical or fun activities with guests - even when the guests were children. Regis would get involved in all the activities. She would never get involved and it took something away from the show.

Kelly Ripa is a much more entertaining co-host. Although she is best known for her role as Hayley Vaughn on All My Children, Kelly has always appeared to come across as funny and genuine. Her acting abilities allow her to become more involved in the silly gags that help make the show entertaining. Kathie Lee would never get involved in a "dance extravaganza" or videotape a high-heel shoe workout in preparation for a High-Heel-A-Thon to benefit the March of Dimes. This is a perfect example of why Kelly Ripa is such a standout on the show.

Moreover, Kelly is a natural in front of the camera. She has great chemistry with Regis, makes the show fun to watch and always has something to talk about. There is never a dull moment between them. I believe Kelly is even better when she has to work with guest co-hosts (such as her husband Mark Consuelos). When comparing stories about their children, I would rather hear stories about the Consuelos family than the adventures of Cody.

I think Kelly and Regis make a perfect pair. Regis, as the seasoned entertainment veteran, probably enjoys having Kelly as a co-host. She's savvy, full of energy and connects with a totally younger audience. Kathie Lee eventually lost her connection with the audience. Viewers grew tired of her. She started to become annoying and did not have much appeal with younger viewers.

Kathie Lee is a better fit for the Today show. The format, content and target audience of the program is a good match for her. However, Kelly Ripa is still the better co-host. Kelly's popularity has soared and continues to grow. As a mother of three children and a successful career woman, she connects with a much larger audience base. Kelly Ripa has broader appeal and remains the more entertaining co-host to watch on television.

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