Kelly Ripa reveals the quirky bedtime signal that tells Mark Consuelos romance is off the table. The couple shares their funny koala-inspired marriage habit.
- April 2, 2026
AceShowbiz - Kelly Ripa recently opened up about a unique nighttime habit that acts as a clear signal in her marriage to Mark Consuelos. During an April 1 episode of their talk show Live With Kelly and Mark, Kelly Ripa shared how putting in her oral retainer at night effectively becomes a "chastity belt" for Mark Consuelos, indicating that intimacy is off the table once she does so.
The conversation began with Mark Consuelos discussing a study about koalas and their indifferent reaction to romantic rejection. He explained how koalas, when rejected, simply go back to sleep instead of being heartbroken—something he admitted he could relate to. Kelly Ripa laughed at the comparison and joked that when she pops in her retainer, Mark Consuelos hears it and knows the night is winding down for any romantic activity.
Mark Consuelos playfully agreed, describing his bedtime routine with a eucalyptus leaf in hand, asking if Kelly Ripa wants to fool around, and then accepting her "no" with humor.
On the Not Skinny But Not Fat podcast in July, Kelly Ripa explained how she had to set boundaries about their bedroom schedule once they began working together daily. She told Mark Consuelos that their intimate time had to sometimes be "her way," which is at night only. She humorously added that removing her retainer is part of the process, while Mark Consuelos uses nasal strips.
However, Mark Consuelos later admitted that their busy work schedules, especially with hosting Live, have impacted their sex life. In a March episode, he said the job had become an "antidote" to their usual routine.
In a 2017 Live! With Kelly episode, Kelly Ripa humorously complained that Mark Consuelos becomes "mean" or short with her after their special married couple time. While she later clarified it was a joke, Mark Consuelos defended himself by explaining that he simply falls asleep right afterward.
During a 2021 Live episode, Kelly Ripa commented on how Mark Consuelos would quickly address and resolve any marital issues rather than letting them fester.
While Mark Consuelos is a morning person, especially when it comes to intimacy, Kelly Ripa finds morning sex unappealing. She reiterated this on the Not Skinny But Not Fat podcast, emphasizing her need for balance and that her preferred time is exclusively at night.
This article is based on reporting originally published by E! News.
