Phil Donahue Passes Away at 88

Phil Donahue, the beloved talk show host, has died at the age of 88 after battling a long illness. His family shared the sad news on August 18, 2024, stating he was surrounded by loved ones during his final moments.

Phil and his wife, actress Marlo Thomas, enjoyed a wonderful marriage that lasted 44 years. The couple tied the knot in 1980, and their love story began when Marlo appeared on Phil’s talk show in 1977. During that interview, Phil found Marlo “fascinating,” and their chemistry sparked a romance.

Marlo opened up in past interviews about how their relationship flourished over the years. She noted that in the beginning, they often argued but learned to communicate better as time went on. “We settled into debating or arguing in a better, calmer way,” she said.

Throughout their marriage, Marlo often praised Phil for his unwavering support of her career, saying, “My husband will always say, ‘You ought to do that! You will be great at that.’” She cherished having a partner who believed in her dreams.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Marlo reflected on how their time together helped strengthen their bond. They enjoyed quiet moments at home, dubbing it “Netflix and Phil,” and aimed to keep a slower pace even when life got hectic again.

Phil had five children from his first marriage to Margaret Cooney: Michael, Kevin, Daniel, Mary Rose, and James. After the divorce, four of his sons moved in with him. Marlo shared how she embraced the challenges of blending families, approaching Phil’s kids as a friend first to build strong relationships with them that endure to this day.

Phil’s family shared that he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his wife Marlo, his sister, his children, grandchildren, and his beloved golden retriever, Charlie. His legacy of love and communication within his family will surely be remembered.