Legendary television host Phil Donahue has died after a long illness, his family announced.
The host of The Phil Donahue Show passed away on Sunday at the age of 88, surrounded by his family at his home.
A pioneer in talk shows, his program was the first of its kind and included concepts that are common today, such as audience participation.
It remained on the air for nearly 30 years, cementing the former news reporter’s place in the annals of television history.
He was 88 years old and had recently been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his distinguished career.
Legendary television host Phil Donahue has died after a long illness, his family confirmed Sunday. He is pictured at the American Icon Awards in Beverly Hills in 2019.
The host of the famous The Phil Donahue Show oversaw the program for 29 seasons, during which he introduced several concepts that are common today, such as audience participation. The show aired from 1967 to 1996.
Donahue is survived by his wife, Marlo Thomas, his sister, his children and his grandchildren, who were by his side Sunday night when he died, according to his statement.
Also present was her beloved golden retriever, Charlie, as it is unknown what illness he suffered from.
Last month, his wife Marlo, an 86-year-old actress and producer, posted a photo of the icon on Instagram, while he was on a farm in Canada feeding a horse.
Unlike the ceremony with Joe Biden, he stood up on his own with the help of a cane, looking healthy and happy surrounded by the idyllic scenery.
Last month, his wife Marlo, an 86-year-old actress and producer, posted a photo of the icon on Instagram while he was on a farm in Canada feeding a horse.
Unlike a ceremony held a few weeks earlier at the White House with Joe Biden, he stood up on his own with the aid of a cane. Biden awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom on May 3 after his impressive career
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