Legendary TV talk show host Phil Donahue dies at 88

 

Phil Donahue, the iconic TV talk show host, passed away on Sunday night at the age of 88 after battling a prolonged illness, his family announced. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, including his wife of 44 years, Marlo Thomas, his sister, children, grandchildren, and his cherished golden retriever, Charlie.

The family did not disclose further details regarding his cause of death.

The news of Donahue's passing was shared during the 3rd hour of TODAY on Monday morning by Craig Melvin and Sheinelle Jones. Reflecting on his legacy, Sheinelle remarked, "We sometimes overuse the word trailblazer, but he certainly was, indeed."

Donahue revolutionized the daytime talk show format, introducing a focus on issue-based discussions with active audience participation. His groundbreaking program became one of the most influential shows of its era.

Beyond his talk show, Donahue was a regular presence on TODAY from 1979 to 1988. He briefly returned to television in 2002 with a new show on MSNBC, also titled "Donahue," though it was canceled within a few months.

In recognition of his significant contributions, President Joe Biden awarded Donahue the Presidential Medal of Freedom in May. This honor, the highest civilian award in the United States, is given to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the nation's prosperity, values, security, world peace, or other vital societal endeavors.

In lieu of flowers, Donahue's family has requested that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Phil Donahue/Notre Dame Scholarship Fund.