Kelly Ripa hints at 'Live' exit during 25th anniversary: 'I don't plan to work forever'

Is Kelly Ripa headed toward retirement? Eventually!

During an interview with Decider regarding her 25th anniversary hosting Live, Ripa teased her exiton the talk show, acknowledging that she doesn't intend to work indefinitely.

Ripa mentioned that although her tenure as a co-host on the popular show will eventually conclude, she is certain the program itself will remain.

"For me, I've always maintained that this job and this location are truly unique, and I genuinely believe in this show as a franchise," the 55-year-old said to the news outlet on Thursday, February 19, just one day beforeLive with Kelly and Mark hosted a special episode celebrating Ripa's 25-year milestone.

It's a franchise series. Before me, there wasRegis [Philbin] and Kathie Lee [Gifford]. And prior to Kathie Lee, there was Regis and countless other hosts," said Ripa, who currently co-hosts the show with her husband,Mark Consuelos, and previously appeared with Philbin andRyan Seacrest.

Ripa confessed, "I think this program will keep going as long as traditional TV remains. I feel there are too many skilled individuals who truly deserve a chance to reach their own viewers and expand the audience in their own way."

Kelly Ripa Says She'll Decide to Retire 'When the Moment Arrives'

Mocking her departure, Ripa admittedBecause I don't plan to work for the rest of my life. I truly mean that.

While the blonde beauty confirmed her retirementwill arrive in time, she did not provide any specific schedule for her exit.

"I have no plans to work for the rest of my life. However, I believe we'll all decide that when the moment arrives," she said.

It appears that Consuelos would not continue the show without his wife, as Ripa mentioned her plan to find ideal replacements for both herself and the show.Riverdaleactor before they leave the series permanently.

I believe there's a way to bring in new individuals to join and test as cohosts, helping the audience become familiar with different people," she explained. "I think it's crucial. I care too much about this show to see it end with just us.

While retirement is somethingwhat lingers in Ripa's thoughts, the mother of three was more concerned with the present than the future during Friday's festive episode ofLive.

During the performance, Ripa was taken by surprise by her and Consuelo's oldest son,Michaelon the occasion of the special event.

Michael, dressed in a suit and glasses, holding flowers for his mother, moved Kelly to tears when he was asked to share some of his cherished memories from the show.

Michael Consuelos Joins Mom Kelly Ripa on 'Live' for a Surprise Appearance

There are plenty, but if I had to pick just a few, I'd say the swamp tour in Louisiana where I threw the snake at you," Michael joked. "That was really good. That was really amazing.

The eldest Consuelo's child mentioned that the show's "cooking segments" were also among his favorite parts, along with "all the family holiday specials we did together, and the cherry on top, winning the golden wiener."

Ripa was deeply moved, as she told her son: "I'm just looking at you and I think, 'I can't believe you're here. It's such a pleasant surprise."

The mother of three also received heartfelt video messages from her and Mark's other children, daughterLola, 24, and son Joaquin, 22, praising her for reaching the 25th anniversary milestone.