Talk Show Pioneer Phil Donahue Dies at 88

Phil Donahue

Phil Donahue is dead. The legendary television talk show host said goodbye to the world on Sunday night, August 18, 2024. His death came following a lengthy illness. Donahue was 88 years old and is survived by his wife, actress Marlo Thomas, children, grandchildren, and beloved dog.

Phil Donahue’s Death Announced

Phil Donahue’s family announced his passing via a statement; however, they didn’t reveal the exact cause of his death. Per MSN, Donahue’s family’s statement read: “Groundbreaking TV talk show journalist Phil Donahue died Sunday night at home surrounded by his wife of 44 years Marlo Thomas, his sister, his children, grandchildren and his beloved golden retriever Charlie. Donahue was 88 years old and passed away peacefully following a long illness.”

Tributes Pour in for Phil Donahue

After news of Donahue’s death made headlines, several famous figures paid tribute to him. Among those who eulogized Donahue was British broadcaster Piers Morgan. In a tweet, Morgan described Donahue as one of American television’s “true trail-blazing icons.” Morgan also recalled his CNN interview with Donahue and described him as a “clever, interesting man.” More tributes poured in for Donahue from his friends, colleagues, fans, and the media world.

Media mogul, Oprah Winfrey, also paid tribute to Donahue via a statement to People magazine. She said: “There wouldn’t be an Oprah Show without Phil Donahue being the first to prove that daytime talk and women watching should be taken seriously.” Winfrey concluded by describing Donahue as a pioneer and adding that she was glad she could thank him for his work.

Phil Donahue’s Legacy

Phil Donahue
Emmy award-winning talk show host Phil Donahue, 41, in ten years on the air is proving wrong that old theory that housewives desire little more from daytime television than soap operas and game shows. Image Credit: Bettman via Getty Images.

Donahue would always be remembered as the pioneer of issue-based daytime talk shows featuring live audiences. His show, The Phil Donahue Show, was very influential and paved the way for others like Winfrey’s to succeed. Donahue was a multiple award winner, an outstanding host, and a great personality.

The late TV icon was married twice in his lifetime. His first marriage to Margaret Cooney lasted from 1958 to 1975 and the couple shared five children: Michael, Kevin, Daniel, Mary Rose, and James. Donahue married Thomas in 1980. The couple had no children together, but they enjoyed a blissful marriage and remained together until his death.

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