Seth Meyers says no (five times) to Regis Philbin's old job

Seth Meyers says no (five times) to Regis Philbin’s old job

Actor Seth Meyers, left, and TV personality Kelly Ripa tape a segment for "Live! With Regis And Kelly" at the ABC Lincoln Center Studios on April 18, 2011, in New York City

By Yvonne Villarreal

July 10, 2012 12 AM PT

It seems “Saturday Night Live” funnyman Seth Meyers is not looking to become an early worm. The “SNL” writer and Weekend Update anchor is downplaying reports he’ll assume the role of Regis Philbin on “Live!”

Meyers, according to a report last week, was said to be the front-runner to sit alongside Kelly Ripa -- other names on the list included singer Josh Groban and retired football player Michael Strahan. The 38-year-old comedian is currently serving as a guest host on the morning show. But that’s where his morning duty will apparently stop.

In an interview with the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Meyer gave little weight to reports he’ll step into Philbin’s shoes on a permanent basis. “No, no, no, no, no,” he told the paper.

“I know [Regis’ replacement] is a very important thing down there,” he added. “But, right now, what I would say to you: I’m really in love with the job I have. I’m very excited to be going back [to SNL] for the election season, which is always fun.”

OK ... But, remember, that’s what he’s saying “right now.”

Philbin left his morning throne last November after 28 seasons, leaving Ripa to speed date for morning mates with the likes of Anderson Cooper, her hubby actor Mark Consuelos and Jerry Seinfeld.

A decision by Disney-ABC Domestic Television, which syndicates the show, on a permanent co-host is expected to come before the new season of “Live!” begins in September.

Kelly Ripa rules out her husband as co-host for ‘Live!’

Regis Philbin returns to TV as Piers Morgan’s guest host

Follow Yvonne Villarreal on Twitter: @villarrealy