Is Mario Lopez Replacing Michael Strahan On ‘Live!’? TV Personality Addresses ‘Flattering’ Rumors On ‘Ellen’

Another one bites the dust. Mario Lopez is the latest celebrity to speak out about rumors of who will replace Michael Strahan on “Live With Kelly and Michael!”

The television personality appeared on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” Friday and was finally confronted about the countless stories circulating about his potential move to “Live!.” Lopez, 42, told host Ellen DeGeneres that he had heard all the buzz, but that there was no truth to the claims. He added that he is a big fan of Kelly Ripa — the show’s remaining host — and had the pleasure of working with her several times in the past. While he was hopeful that he would be back on “Live!” as a guest host, Lopez assured DeGeneres that he had not been offered nor accepted a position on the show.

“No, I know people were saying that,” he said. “Again, very flattering. I love Kelly. I’ve guest-hosted with her a few times; She’s awesome. I actually did a movie with her husband Marc [Consuelos], who’s a real good guy. I’m looking forward to going back and guest-hosting again.”

Lopez is just one of the many stars rumored to be headed to “Live!” permanently following Strahan’s shocking exit. Anderson Cooper addressed false stories claiming he’d been selected as Strahan’s replacement on Thursday during an appearance on Bravo’s “Watch What Happens Live.” The anchor praised Ripa for her hosting abilities, but said no one had offered him a position on the show. Cooper added that he was happy with his current role at CNN and had no plans to switch.

Bravo’s Andy Cohen also addressed co-hosting rumors on Thursday, telling Us Weekly he was fed up with all the chatter. He shared that he had said all there was to say about the rumors, adding that he was simply too busy to take on another job.

Strahan’s final appearance on “Live!” will take place May 13. According to People magazine, he plans to take the summer off before becoming a member of the “Good Morning America” team in September.