Kelly Ripa, known for her candid opinions, has consistently criticized the “Bachelor” and “Bachelorette” franchises on her show, engaging in notable discussions with franchise stars that often highlight her skepticism of the shows’ processes and the authenticity of the relationships formed. Despite her critical stance, Ripa’s interactions with guests from the franchise, including a tense yet playful exchange with “Bachelorette” star Jenn Tran, have sparked discussions about the nature of reality TV romance, with Ripa questioning the need to find love on television and emphasizing her views on female empowerment and the portrayal of relationships in the media.
Kelly Ripa has consistently expressed her skepticism and criticism towards the “Bachelor” and “Bachelorette” franchises, often questioning the intentions and choices of the participants during interviews on her talk show.
Kelly Ripa, right? She’s never been one to bite her tongue. Especially not when it comes to The Bachelor and The Bachelorette. I mean, come on. The drama, the roses, the… well, you know.
So, there was this one time in July 2024. Ripa and Jenn Tran, from season 21, had a bit of a tiff. Tran was like, "Didn’t you meet your hubby on TV?" Pointing at Mark Consuelos, Ripa’s other half. They met on All My Children, after all.
Ripa clapped back, though. She told Tran, "Not the same, honey." She didn’t marry Mateo Santos, the character. She married Mark Consuelos, the man. Big difference, right?
Then, there’s this bit where some roses last, and others… not so much. The Bachelor kicked off in 2002. Alex Michel was the first bachelor, and wow, did that start something big.
But Ripa? She’s got questions. The kind that make you go, "Hmm." That’s her charm. It’s why the show’s ratings are up since Mark joined her. They’ve got this banter, you see. It stirs the pot, gets people talking.
Ripa’s not new to controversy with the franchise. She’s had her moments. Like with Andi Dorfman, season 10’s Bachelorette. Ripa was all, "Why do this to yourself?" And the alcohol question. Classic Ripa.
Nick Viall, from season 21, got a warning from Ripa. She was worried about his choices, especially one contestant with a nanny. "Run," she told him. And the shark-dolphin costume? "Run," again.
Arie Luyendyk Jr.’s decision to switch fiancées post-proposal had Ripa asking, "What’s wrong with you?" She didn’t hold back, drilling into him on Live With Kelly and Ryan.
Then there’s Colton Underwood, season 23’s lead. Ripa actually liked hugging him, which says something. But she questioned his decision to go on the show. Underwood took it in stride, noting the mutual respect between them.
Ripa’s stance on female empowerment came through loud and clear. She’s not a fan of women fighting over a guy. She told her audience as much, and Hannah Brown, season 15’s Bachelorette, got a taste of Ripa’s skepticism too.
Peter Weber, season 24’s Bachelor, was forgettable to Ripa. She joked about not recognizing him without a head injury. And Gerry Turner, The Golden Bachelor, got teased for his love declarations.
But it’s not all tough love. Ripa had a softer moment with Tran, despite their on-air tension. An insider said they were just ribbing each other. Ashley Iaconetti, however, wasn’t amused by Ripa’s approach.
Ben Higgins chimed in, suggesting Ripa might just not be a fan of the show. It makes for some awkward interviews, he said. Tran later clarified that their exchange was all in good fun, just a bit of sarcastic banter.
So, that’s Ripa for you. Never one to shy away from the tough questions or a bit of banter. Whether it’s reality TV stars or her own co-host, she keeps it real. And that’s why we tune in, isn’t it?
