Kelly Ripa returned to her television co-hosting duties for the first time since learning co-host Michael Strahan is departing “Live with Kelly and Michael.”

Ripa had been absent from the long-running morning talk show after news surfaced last Tuesday, that Strahan is leaving to join “Good Morning America” full-time.

Ripa has been absent from the show since last Wednesday.

Shortly after last Tuesday’s show, she was reportedly informed that Strahan would be leaving.

Reports suggested Ripa felt blindsided by the announcement, and her absence sparked debate about how she was treated, and if she reacted appropriately.

Ripa was off last Friday and Monday for what she said was a pre-planned vacation to celebrate her wedding anniversary.

On Tuesday, Ripa received a standing ovation as she and Strahan walked on to the set holding hands.

In a brief monologue, Ripa thanked the audience for “welcoming me back to this show” and said the support she’s received during “this bizarre time” has been overwhelming.

“Our long national nightmare is over,” she deadpanned.

Without addressing Strahan’s departure directly, Ripa said she needed to time to “gather” her thoughts after many years with the company, and didn’t want to tell her audience something she would later “regret.”

Ripa said the incident “started a much greater conversation of communication and consideration and most importantly, respect in the workplace.”

She said she has been assured that “Live” is a priority for the program’s parent company.

‘Live’ is distributed by Disney-ABC Television Group, which is a division of the Walt Disney Company.

Turning to Strahan, Ripa said she is “thrilled” for him.

“I couldn’t be prouder of you and everything we’ve accomplished together,” Ripa said.

As the pair sat down to begin their chat segment, Strahan told Ripa he was happy she’s back.

“I love you and I’m so happy you’re here.”

A former NFL player, Strahan replaced Regis Philbin as Ripa’s host in 2012. Ripa has been on “Live” since 2001.