Phil Donahue, the pioneering talk show host who transformed daytime television by addressing controversial issues with a live audience, died Sunday night at his home. He was 88.
Donahue’s family announced his death in a statement Monday, noting he passed away surrounded by his loved ones, including his wife of 44 years, Marlo Thomas, his sister, children, grandchildren, and his golden retriever, Charlie.
The news was met with shock and sadness from many, including fellow talk show host Oprah Winfrey, who honored Donahue on social media.
“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,” Winfrey wrote. “He was a pioneer. I’m glad I got to thank him for it. Rest in peace Phil.”
Donahue hosted “The Phil Donahue Show” for nearly 30 years, from 1967 to 1996. Though the show ended 28 years ago, Donahue remained in the public eye, receiving the Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden in May. The Medal of Freedom is the nation’s highest civilian honor.
Phillip John Donahue was born on December 21, 1935, in Cleveland, Ohio. He began his broadcasting career as a radio and TV news anchor in Ohio.
