Kelly Ripa Channels Glinda in Oscars Show Opener—And Looks Fabulous Doing It!

Hold on to your wands, folks! In a magical transformation, Kelly Ripa has officially become Kellinda for the latest episode of “Live with Kelly and Mark,” paying homage to the iconic Glinda from *Wicked*. If you didn’t catch the “After the Oscars Show” opener, you’re missing out on some serious morning show charm. The segment, which aired on March 3, kicks off with Ripa dazzling in a pastel pink gown, echoing Ariana Grande’s portrayal of Glinda in the upcoming film adaptation. Talk about a fairytale moment!
Joined by her husband and co-host, Mark Consuelos, who dressed up as Fiyero and competing for ‘Wicked Hunk’ status, Ripa fully embraces the role. With a cheeky line proclaiming, “Henceforth, the pronouncifying of my name will no longer be pronouncified ‘Glinda,’ but simply ‘Kellinda,'” she popped into the scene with her trademark enthusiasm. Their hilarious banter and questionable dance moves had fans cheering, reminding us all not to take life too seriously.
The couple shared the screen with clips from *Wicked*, adding a sprinkle of Broadway pizazz to their chat show environment. Musical numbers like “Popular” were fun reimagined, especially with Ripa sharing the stage alongside Cynthia Erivo, an Oscar nominee for *The Color Purple*. Let’s just say, if Ripa’s breathtaking outfit doesn’t get her a ticket to the Oscars, we don’t know what will!
Ripa even shared a peek behind the scenes on Instagram, thanking her glam squad for the magical transformation—makeup artist Kristofer Buckle and hairstylist Ryan Trygstad. Consuelos even got had a prank call moment that left him confused when he thought he was chatting with Grande herself. “I genuinely thought that was Ariana… It was freaky!” he told People, proving that even seasoned stars can get caught up in the glitz.
As we buzz about their antics, it’s worth noting that Ripa and Consuelos will also be joining the Oscars action this year, speaking with winners right off the stage and showcasing the best red carpet fashions for fans. So, tune in at 9 a.m. EST after the Oscars for more movie magic and the dynamic energy this couple brings to the small screen!
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and People Magazine, Broadway.com, E! Online