Phil Donahue: Trailblazing talk show host dies aged 88
Phil Donahue, the iconic US talk show host, passed away at 88 after a long illness, surrounded by family. He was best known for creating and hosting The Phil Donahue Show, which aired from 1967 to 1996 and was a pioneer in daytime television, introducing audience participation and addressing significant social issues.
Throughout his career, Donahue interviewed numerous prominent figures, including Nelson Mandela and Muhammad Ali, and was instrumental in reshaping the expectations of talk shows, particularly regarding women's interests. His influence is acknowledged by many, including Oprah Winfrey, who credited him with paving the way for future talk shows.
Donahue received 20 Emmy Awards and was awarded the Medal of Freedom earlier this year. He is survived by his second wife, actress Marlo Thomas, and four children from his first marriage.