Kelly Ripa’s jacket raises questions about Michael Strahan’s ‘Live!’ departure

Kelly Ripa had recently made controversial headlines by speaking about her hosting duties and frustrations on ABC’s Live!, all while wearing a happy face during the last few episodes with co-host Michael Strahan.

Ripa, who used book titles in the past to express her feelings, wore a bomber jacket with the word “Freedom” written on the back. The media quickly speculated and suggested that she was expressing something about Strahan’s exit from the show.

Several weeks ago, after finding out about Strahan moving on to Good Morning America, Ripa spoke about the topic of divorce on the show and suggested that her co-host knew a lot about it, also noting that his previous divorce wasn’t as smooth as most celebrities attempt to portray for the public. Some media outlets referred to Ripa’s references as ‘throwing shade’ at Strahan.

During the show last Friday morning, which was Strahan’s last day co-hosting, the two seemed to end their on-air relationship on a high note — even holding hands and hugging at times. He told the audience and fans, “It’s bittersweet. This is a moment I didn’t anticipate being here. (But) it’s here; we’re going to enjoy it. I’m not dying. I’m still in the family. I’m still available to come back if I’m ever called to co-host… I’m not going anywhere.”

Kelly introduced Strahan’s “Flashback Friday Farewell,” which included some of the best moments during his time on the show. In an interview with DuJour magazine, Strahan said he is “looking forward to moving to Good Morning America” and “he’s fortunate to be a part of it.”