Regis Philbin Hopes Ryan Seacrest Will Bring Him Back To ‘Live!’

Regis Philbin is proudly endorsing Kelly Ripa's new co-host — and seems to have hopes that Ryan Seacrest will finally get him back on "Live!"

The New York Post's "Page Six" column reports that Regis was overheard at the Polo Bar in NYC, and was speaking in praise of Ryan. The spy reported that Regis said: “I hope he considers me a mentor!” And if Ryan really does feel that way about Regis, it could finally lead to a reunion with Kelly Ripa!

Regis surprised fans of his old show by complaining to Larry King that he felt snubbed by his former “Live” co-host — saying that Kelly won't get in touch! "She got very offended when I left," said Regis, acknowledging the breakup. "She thought I was leaving because of her!"

Sadly, the real problem with any reunion with Regis could be fears over how he'd perform live on "Live!" Longtime show insiders told The National ENQUIRER that Regis had clearly forgotten that he'd appeared on the show as recently as Oct. 28, 2015! The episode even showed Kelly warmly hugging Regis, and then inviting him over to her house to see her kids.

“Poor Regis,” said one "Live!" veteran. “He’s had terrible memory problems lately. His friends are convinced he’s suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or senile dementia. I really believe he’s on his last legs!”