Phil Donahue, who flipped the script on daytime television by confronting controversial themes in front of a live audience, died on Monday after a protracted illness, his family said in a statement to People and NBC News.
He was 88.
Talk Show Icon Phil Donahue Dies At 88
“Phil died at home surrounded by his family, including his wife of 44 years, Marlo Thomas, his sister, his children, grandchildren, and his beloved golden retriever, Charlie,” his family stated in a statement to media outlets.
CNN has contacted representatives for Donahue and Thomas for comment.
The iconic host hosted “The Phil Donahue Show” from 1967 to 1996.
Even though the show ended 28 years ago, Donahue was in the national spotlight as recently as May, when President Joe Biden awarded him and 18 other honourees the Medal of Freedom. The award is the country’s highest civilian honor.
Phillip John Donahue was born December 21, 1935, in Cleveland, Ohio. He polished his broadcasting skills as a radio and TV news anchor in Ohio.
Phil’s big break came in 1967 when Dayton’s WLWD TV began “The Phil Donahue Show.” The host pioneered the idea of asking the studio audience questions.
The show gained a reputation as a platform for hot-button themes at the time, such as equal rights for women.
The show went to Chicago and then New York while expanding to other stations across the US.
Talk Show Icon Phil Dies At 88
National syndication led to higher-profile guests — including his future wife, actress Marlo Thomas. In 1977, viewers watched the couple fall in love live on the show.
“You are really fascinating,” Donahue said Thomas onstage, reaching for her hand.
“But you are wonderful,” Thomas said, squeezing his host’s hand. “I stated that when we were off-air. And I’d like to state that you’re caring and generous, and that you enjoy being with ladies. And whoever is the woman in your life is quite fortunate.”
SOURCE | CNN
