Local teacher named as finalist to co-host Live! With Kelly

SOUDERTON, Pa. (WPVI) -- When it comes to TV gigs, a chance to co-host with Kelly Ripa is a hot one.

As the search continues to find a permanent replacement for former co-host Michael Strahan, Ripa is giving one lucky fan a chance to sit beside her for a day.

And there's one very enthusiastic high school teacher in Souderton, Pennsylvania who really wants that shot.

Richard Curtis, the school's TV teacher, made the clever audition tape with the help of his students and it got him into the top 20.

"I need Philadelphia and surrounding areas to back me on this! To go to LiveKelly.com and vote so I can make it into the top 10," he said.

Curtis is no stranger to live TV. He directs his students through a live broadcast for the school.

And he wants you to know it wasn't his idea to audition for the 'Kelly and You' contest - his wife gets the credit for that.

"My wife said in the morning, do not come home unless you apply for this competition. I needed a place to sleep so I applied that afternoon," he said.

And his biggest fans are on board!

"It's a big dream of his and no one deserves it more," said Souderton senior Danny Robinson.

"America deserves to get to know such an influential guy," said Saba Ahmed.

And while he has no plans of leaving Souderton High School if Kelly should offer him a permanent spot, the father of two admits that the national Live! With Kelly experience - if even just for a day - is good for his street cred.

"I literally have the best job in the world. This would be an opportunity to put my weight behind my words and say guys - I have done it, trust me," said Curtis.

And Curtis isn't the only local hoping for a shot at co-hosting with Kelly.

Camden County comedian Dena blizzard is also in the top 20.

To cast your vote for Richard Curtis or Dena Blizzard and to view the other 18 finalists in the competition, CLICK HERE.

You can vote once a day until Sunday, October 9.