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Mark Consuelos announced his father’s death on live television this morning. Saul Consuelos died March 23, 2026 after a long illness. The emotional announcement left hosts and viewers in tears.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Death Date: Saul passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, after a long illness
- Announcement: Mark revealed the news on April 6 during Live with Kelly and Mark on ABC
- Kelly’s Tribute: Kelly Ripa called him “the greatest person I’ve ever known”
- Service Record: Saul served in the U.S. Navy for 30 years, ending at Special Operations Command in Tampa
A Father’s Legacy on Live Television
Mark Consuelos began Monday’s episode of Live with Kelly and Mark with devastating news. “Two weeks ago today, my father passed away after a long bout with an illness,” he said tearfully. “He passed away peacefully. Such a fascinating man.”
The couple had been on a two-week hiatus when Saul Consuelos died, making this the first time Mark addressed the loss publicly. Kelly Ripa visibly emotional, added her own heartfelt tribute from beside her husband.
Kelly Ripa announces father-in-law Saul Consuelos’ death on live TV
Mark Consuelos announces death of his dad, Saul, ‘greatest person I’ve ever known’
Kelly Ripa’s Emotional Tribute
Kelly Ripa didn’t hesitate to share her profound love for her father-in-law. “I only got to know my father-in-law for 31 years, but they were the best 31 years of my life,” she said. She continued, “I can honestly say I will miss him every day for the rest of my life.”
Ripa praised Saul’s impact on their family, noting how he was always present for their three children. “He really is so symbolic of everything you are,” she told Mark, emphasizing the deep connection between father and son.
A Remarkable Journey from Mexico to America
Mark reflected profoundly on his father’s immigration story during the announcement. “He came here from Mexico in his early teens,” Mark explained. “He immigrated here from Mexico. He served his country for 30 years.”
| Life Achievement | Details |
| Birthplace | Mexico (immigrated in early teens) |
| Military Service | 30 years in U.S. Navy |
| Final Assignment | Special Operations Command, Tampa |
| Education | Master’s Degree (earned while raising Mark) |
Mark emphasized his father’s dedication: “He loved this country so much. If you put a face to an immigrant, he would be the prime example of what this country promises people.”
“All of the good things that I love about you, I loved those same things about your dad. So I just want to say thank you, Dad, for everything you gave to us.”
— Kelly Ripa, to Mark Consuelos on Live with Kelly and Mark
The Lessons That Shaped Mark Consuelos
Mark described his father’s hands-on teaching style with appreciation. “If you asked him what time it was, he would tell you how to build a watch,” Mark joked. “There were a lot of lectures.” But those lessons stuck with him.
“If he was fixing something in the house, he’d make me watch and do it,” Mark shared. “I didn’t know at the time why he was doing that. But now at the house, I’m able to do at least half the stuff that he did. I learned the most by just watching him.” Ripa chimed in, noting that Mark does everything exactly the way his father did.
How Will the Consuelos Family Move Forward?
Mark mentioned he got to say goodbye to his father while in rehearsals for his Broadway play, Fallen Angels, which began previews on March 27. The production has become a welcomed distraction during this difficult time.
The family is now focused on supporting Mark’s mother, Camilla Consuelos. The couple joked about trying to convince her to move to New York City, even pitching a potential Cooking with Camilla segment on their show. Mark and Kelly are committed to keeping his memory alive through their three adult children, Michael, Lola, and Joaquin, who are experiencing their first major family loss.
Sources
- People.com – Mark Consuelos’s father Saul Consuelos died after a long illness with heartfelt family memories
- TV Insider – Mark Consuelos announces his father’s death on Live with Kelly and Mark
- Entertainment Weekly – Mark emotionally announces death of his father on morning show broadcast
