Phil Donahue, Pioneering TV Host, Dies at 88 After Long Illness

Aug 19, 2024, 01:41 PM

Phil Donahue, a pioneering television talk show host, has died at the age of 88 following a long illness. Donahue, who passed away on Sunday night, was renowned for revolutionizing the talk show format by introducing audience participation and tackling controversial topics. His show, 'The Phil Donahue Show,' which began in the late 1960s, became a staple of American daytime television and influenced numerous successors, including Oprah Winfrey. Over his career, Donahue hosted over 6,000 talk shows, initially broadcasting from Dayton, Ohio, and later from Chicago. Donahue's family confirmed his death, noting his significant impact on television and culture. He is survived by his wife, Marlo Thomas, and four children.