As Halloween approaches, a sense of excitement fills the air, especially for fans of “LIVE with Kelly and Mark.” This year’s Halloween special, titled “Only Halloween in the Building,” marks a significant milestone for the beloved talk show—its last Halloween broadcast from the iconic ABC studios on the Upper West Side. As the show gears up for a move to a new studio in SoHo, co-hosts Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos are poised to make this event memorable, embracing the spirit of Halloween like never before.
With only a few weeks until the big day on October 31, Kelly and Mark have revealed plans to don a staggering total of 40 different costumes during the special. This grand spectacle showcases not only their creative prowess but also their dedication to entertaining viewers. It’s a delightful departure from the standard talk show format, allowing the hosts to explore various personas, evoke laughter, and embrace the whimsical nature of Halloween.
Amidst their extensive costume lineup, fans can look forward to a standout transformation where Kelly and Mark will embody the vibrant styles of Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars. Drawing inspiration from their striking looks in the “Die with a Smile” music video, the hosts are embracing a nostalgic aesthetic reminiscent of ’70s country legends, such as Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner.
Kelly’s transformation into Lady Gaga is nothing short of extravagant, featuring a voluminous curly brown wig, a mod blue mini dress, red tights, and exaggerated eye makeup that embodies the essence of Gaga’s theatrical style. Mark’s portrayal of Bruno Mars includes a tailored blue suit paired with a red button-down shirt, a cowboy hat, and a meticulously crafted curly black wig, completing his look with a stylish mustache.
In a candid moment, Kelly admitted to being unfamiliar with the specific inspirations behind their costumes but expressed her newfound appreciation after viewing the music video. Mark chimed in, describing the song’s charm as “beautiful,” highlighting their shared excitement over delving into character for the Halloween special.
While viewers are eager to see their transformations live, it’s important to note that the elaborate outfits will not make an appearance in the live portion of the show. Instead, Kelly and Mark have opted for pre-taped segments, a tradition that adds an element of fun and creativity to their Halloween programming. These segments allow for polished performances and seamless transitions between costumes, creating a dynamic viewing experience.
Kelly voiced her preference for these pre-taped segments, emphasizing the relaxed atmosphere they provide. The duo can explore their characters with a sense of freedom that comes from not being under live pressure. This creative format allows for error correction and improvisation, making the overall production feel more organic and entertaining.
As with past Halloween specials, this year’s show will feature exciting guest appearances, with Joey Fatone confirmed as part of the star-studded lineup. The inclusion of celebrity guests adds allure and variety to the special, enriching the festive atmosphere. Viewers can expect a mix of hilarity, nostalgia, and surprises as Kelly and Mark navigate their costume changes and engage with guests in quirky skits and discussions.
“LIVE with Kelly and Mark” is set to deliver a Halloween extravaganza filled with costume changes, celebrity guests, and a heap of entertainment. Kelly and Mark’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of a traditional talk show promises an unforgettable experience, marking the end of an era as they transition to a new studio. Fans of all ages can look forward to this whimsical celebration as they bring characters and stories to life, embodying the playful spirit that Halloween is all about.