Andy Cohen and Kelly Ripa are totally BFFs, so following the announcement of Ryan Seacrest as her new co-anchor, Andy had a few helpful tips for him.

“I think he should not underestimate how smart she is,” he told People. “I just don’t think he should underestimate her in any way. She’s smart. She’s been doing that show for a long time. She’s a businesswoman, a great mom and just don’t underestimate her.”

Following Ryan joining the chair, Andy said, “I think it’s good because … he’s an adult. He’s a big star and he’s a big name. So I think it takes a lot of the burden off of her because she’s been doing this alone for the last year. It’s equals now — which is good.”