Jeff Gordon open up about ‘Live with Kelly!’ co-host chatter

Is it possible that Kelly Ripa could soon have a co-host for “Live!” once more in Jeff Gordon? This was the report a little ways back, even though ABC has to date chosen to remain relatively mum, and not tip their cap too much one way or another in terms of where they are leaning.

While at a NASCAR gig this weekend at Sonoma Raceway, working of course for Fox Sports, the retired racing icon made it clear that he was happy to get some attention thrown his way; however, he said (per TVLine, who initially were behind the report in the first place) that he would not want it to interfere with his current duties:

“Well, I’m flattered that my name has been associated with that … I’ve always maintained a great friendship with [Live] and some of the producers and folks within the show. I had a great time co-hosting… and I certainly would welcome [the gig] … [but] my priority is Fox and Fox Sports and NASCAR, so I will definitely be back in the [Fox NASCAR] booth next year.”

Personally, we’d welcome getting Gordon on the show just because he comes from a completely different world, and therefore caters to a completely different demographic. There is more ultimately to gain from putting him in this position that a New York actor / TV personality, since Ripa already appeals to much of that crowd. Gordon brings viewers from the south, racing fans, and not always the folks who tend to watch morning talk shows.

Also, we figure that the logistics will work themselves out fine here. Just remember for a minute or two that Michael Strahan did his sportscaster duties along with “Live,” and the same thing goes for Erin Andrews in between sports and “Dancing with the Stars.”

Want to get some other news right now when it comes to everything we cover at CarterMatt? Then sign up right now for our official CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: ABC.)