Is it possible for a morning show to truly capture the chaotic, yet heartwarming essence of Thanksgiving week? “Live with Kelly and Mark” seems determined to try, with a lineup that veers wildly from former presidents to zombie musicals, with a generous helping of Black Friday bargain hunting thrown in for good measure.
Starting Monday, November 25, the show kicks off its “Thanksgiving Family Feast,” a culinary odyssey promising recipes and cooking demos, designed to inspire viewers – or, more realistically, send them scrambling for takeout menus.
First up is former President Bill Clinton, discussing his post-presidential life as chronicled in “Citizen: My Life After the White House.” One can only speculate what insights he might offer into surviving the holidays with family. Perhaps he’ll share tips on navigating complicated political discussions over turkey and stuffing or offer diplomatic solutions to the inevitable seating chart dilemmas. Following this foray into the political arena, the show pivots sharply to the world of Disney musicals with Kylie Cantrall, promoting the “Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour.”
The week continues with Scarlett Johansson gracing the “Live” stage on Tuesday, followed by Jodie Turner-Smith discussing her new show Paramount+ espionage series, “The Agency,” which co-stars Richard Gere and Michael Fassbender.
Wednesday’s installment brings Anthony Anderson and the return of Monica Mangin, offering guidance on navigating the Black Friday shopping frenzy. Thanksgiving Day itself features Winston Duke and Kim Fields, while Friday rounds out the week with Ben Stiller discussing his film “Nutcrackers” and a performance by Calum Scott.
Clearly, “Live with Kelly and Mark” isn’t afraid to embrace the eclectic nature of the holiday week. It’s a buffet of personalities and topics, reflecting the sometimes disorienting, but ultimately festive, spirit of the season. Just don’t expect a cohesive theme, unless “randomness with a side of stuffing” counts.
“Live with Kelly and Mark” airs weekdays at 9:00 a.m. on ABC.
