Phil Donahue, the pioneering TV talk show host, passed away on August 18 at the age of 88. His family, including his wife of 44 years, Marlo Thomas, confirmed his death, stating he passed away after a long illness, surrounded by loved ones and his golden retriever.
Donahue began his career in radio in 1959 and later revolutionized daytime talk shows with “The Phil Donahue Show,” which became one of the most influential programs of its time. “You know, we overuse sometimes the word trailblazer, but he certainly was, indeed,” said Sheinelle Jones of “Today.”
In May 2024, Donahue received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden, an award given to individuals who have made “exemplary contributions” to society.
To honor his legacy, the family requests donations to the Phil Donahue/Notre Dame Scholarship Fund or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in lieu of flowers.