Phil Donahue, who flipped the script for daytime television by tackling controversial issues in front of a live audience, has died after a long illness, his family announced in a statement on Monday to People and NBC News. He was 88.
“Donahue died at his 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 said in a statement to the outlets.
The news of his passing was met with surprise and grief by many including fellow talk show host Oprah Winfrey who shared a photo of her with Donahue from years ago on social media Monday writing in the caption “There wouldn’t have been an Oprah Show without Phil Donahue being the first to prove that daytime talk and women watching should be taken seriously.”
“He was a pioneer. I’m glad I got to thank him for it. Rest in peace Phil,” she added.
The legendary host fronted “The Phil Donahue Show” for nearly three decades, from 1967 to 1996.
Even though the show ended 28 years ago, Donahue was in the national spotlight as recently as May, when he and 18 other honorees received the Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden. The award is the nation’s highest civilian honor.
Phillip John Donahue was born on December 21, 1935, in Cleveland, Ohio. He honed his broadcasting skills as a radio and TV news anchor in Ohio.
