Michael Strahan to leave 'Live!' on May 13

NEW YORK, April 26 (UPI) -- ABC announced Tuesday that Michael Strahan will vacate his co-host's chair on Live! with Kelly & Michael on May 13.

"After meeting with the producers of both Live! and Good Morning America, and after speaking with Kelly and Michael, we have decided on a plan that best advantages both shows for the future," an ABC spokesman said in a statement.

"To that end, Michael's last day on Live! will be on Friday, May 13, which not only gives the show the chance to have a nice send-off for him during the May book, but to also immediately begin the on-air search for a new co-host. This plan also allows GMA to start integrating Michael into the show more often this summer before his full-time start in September."

Strahan's Live! co-host Kelly Ripa returned to the syndicated morning program Tuesday after nearly a week off the air.

She explained she needed time to adjust to the idea that Strahan was departing for a full-time job at GMA. Ripa was informed about his planned exit shortly before the news was announced to the media.