Phil Donahue, the legendary daytime talk show host, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on August 18, surrounded by his loved ones, including his wife of 44 years, Marlo Thomas. Donahue began his media career in the late 1950s and transformed talk shows with The Phil Donahue Show, which went national in 1970. Known for addressing controversial issues and incorporating audience interaction, his innovative approach set the stage for future hosts, including Oprah Winfrey.

Over his career, Donahue won 20 Emmy Awards and was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. In honor of his memory, his family has requested that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Phil Donahue/Notre Dame Scholarship Fund.