Kelly Ripa Welcomes New Co-Host Michael Strahan

It's official! Kelly Ripa's new co-host is Michael Strahan.

The six-foot-five former NFL star, made his grand entrance this morning, literally sweeping Kelly off her feet.

The show has been retitled, Live With Kelly and Michael.  INSIDE EDITION was behind the scenes as our camera's caught Strahan chatting with guests and whispering to Ripa.

So, what does Strahan think of filling the shoes of the legendary Regis Philbin? Here's what the new co-host had to say:

"I never looked at it as i have to come in and replace Regis. I have to come in and be who I am. It's impossible, you can never replace Regis."

Ripa is a busy lady these days. She and husband, Mark Consuelos are the executive producers of a new reality TV series, that explores the world of competitive cheerleading.

Cheer! follows tough-as-nails coach, Patty Ann Romero as she guides her team of 20 elite cheerleaders through practices at her New Jersey gym. The show premieres Friday September 7 on CMT.