Phil Donahue, Daytime Talk Show Pioneer, Dies At 88

Phil Donahue, the iconic talk show host known for pioneering the issue-based format with The Phil Donahue Show, has passed away at the age of 88. He died at his home, surrounded by his family, including his wife Marlo Thomas, his sister, children, grandchildren, and his beloved golden retriever, Charlie. No details about cause of death were released. Renowned as the “King Of Daytime Talk,” tributes poured in for the TV personality on social media, including one from Oprah Winfrey, who credited Donahue with proving “daytime talk and women watching should be taken seriously.” President Biden awarded Donahue and 18 others the Presidential Medal Of Freedom in May. (EW)