Phil Donahue Dies: Talk Show Pioneer, Age 88

Phillip John Donahue was an American media personality, writer, film producer, and the creator and host of his own television show – “The Phil Donahue Show”.

The series, later known as “Donahue,” was the first talk show format with audience participation. The show ran for 29 years, beginning in 1967 (in Dayton, Ohio) and ending in New York City in 1996.

Donahue’s show was one of the most influential talk shows, and the host himself has been called the “king of daytime talk.” His conversations often focused on issues that divide liberals and conservatives in the United States, such as consumer protection, civil rights, and war. Oprah Winfreythe famous American presenter, once confessed: “If it wasn’t for Phil Donahue, there would never have been an Oprah Show“.

In 1996, Donahue was ranked 42nd on TV Guide’s list of the 50 Greatest TV Stars of All Time.

Longtime TV talk show host he died on Sunday evening after a long illnesshis family reported. He was 88 years old.The cause of his death has not yet been revealed.

According to foreign media, Donahue passed away at his home, surrounded by his family, including his 44-year-old wife Marlo Thomas, his sister, his children, grandchildren and his beloved golden retriever Charlie.