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Phil Donahue
1935 - 2024
Phil Donahue
1935 - 2024
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1935
DIED
2024
Phil Donahue Obituary
Phil Donahue, the iconic TV host who reinvented the daytime talk show format in the 1960s, '70s and '80s, died Sunday, August 18, 2024 at the age of 88.
We invite you to share memories and condolences for Phil Donahue in the guest book below.
Read the full obituary in Legacy's headline news section.
(Photo by Michel Delsol/Getty Images)
91 Entries
Thomas Berbas
March 2, 2025
I was deeply saddened to hear of Phil Donahue's passing. An influential voice who shaped thoughtful conversation and inspired generations. His warmth, curiosity, and compassion will be remembered fondly. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. May his legacy continue to inspire us for years to come.
Sincerely,
Thomas Berbas
Cindi J Musselman
December 28, 2024
My condolences to family and friends.
Diane Ballard
November 30, 2024
My heartfelt condolences to the family in your time of sorry.
Rodney t Kuhl
November 20, 2024
well ihave know him most of his life he show and all and ihave known marlo tommas as well great people sorry for your los ans all rodney kuhl york nebraska
How you can show support
Marianne Taylor
November 12, 2024
The other story Mr. Donahue told when he spoke at Alter HS also concerned JFK. Mr. Kennedy was in West VA campaigning. One of the coal miners asked 3 questions. Is it true that you are the son of a very rich man? You've never HAD to work for anything and you have never wanted for anything? JFK acknowledged all these things were true
The coalminer shook hands with him and ended with " I just thought I'd let you know - you haven't missed a thing.
Betty Nunez
November 11, 2024
My deepest condolence to his wife, Marlo Thomas and to all his family. May Phil Donahue rest in peace in God´s grace. He is now reporting and entertaining the Angels. I enjoyed his show for many years so I know he will provide and entertain everyone in heaven. Godspeed!
Betty Nunez
bernerd walsh
November 7, 2024
will sutton and teddy pharmacology
Karen Layman
November 7, 2024
Watching the Phil Donahue show was like sitting down with a friend for a visit. I'm glad he had many happy years with Marlo Thomas. He is with the Lord now.God bless him.
Leslie Redaway
October 15, 2024
Rest In Heaven
Marianne Taylor
October 13, 2024
When I was in high school (Alter) Mr. Donahue came one day as a speaker. He told us about a time in the late 1950's when JFK was in Dayton campaigning. A hour long interview was done. Not until they were back at the studio was it realized their audio system wasn't working. They had nothing. The knew JFK was leaving at 6am but at midnight they called his hotel. In the middle of the night Kennedy came to the studio and redid the interview. Some stories stay with you. Marianne Gigliotti Taylor
Jacolyn Blunt
October 11, 2024
Since Phil's passing I've been thinking about Phil and how he effected my life. I watched everyday for years until I worked full time and I can tell you I derived more information and insight from his show than my college education. I always said that Phil got the most important and intelligent guests and so I learned. He was the best by far, but you had to grow old to see how poorly his followers have done and to realize the gift he had given to several generations of watchers.
Florentia w Bunn
October 10, 2024
my friends said all I talked about was the Phil Donahue show lol rip.
Linda Lewis
October 9, 2024
Every morning I would get my children up and ready for the day and my neighbor and I would meet for coffee and Phil Donahue. Our children played as we watched and discussed whatever topic Phil had that day. Still think it was the best talk show ever. Love and prayers to his family and friends. His light will be missed...
ER
September 26, 2024
My deepest sympathy is with Phil´s family and friends during this time of grief and sorrow. I hope the special memories of your loved one will always be remember. May Almighty God comfort you all and give you the strength to go on.
Brenda webster Gillcrese
September 25, 2024
My first connection with Mr. Donahue, always wanted to interact with guest, treated everyone like we belong family
Cynde
September 25, 2024
His beautiful.hair
Sharon Ballard
September 23, 2024
Your heart soon will be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Jennifer
September 10, 2024
Jennifer
September 10, 2024
Jennifer
September 10, 2024
There are no words to say, yet as we are all mourning the passing of a talented extraordinary ENTREPRENEUR Talk Show Host the Man of the hour that we are Honoring as we saying a final farewell before he leaves this earth PHIL DONAHUE.
Deepest Sympathies Condolences To The Family Of Phil Donahue, Relatives,Talk Show Industry, Friends & Fans,
He would be missed, yet never be forgotten, as he came Into our homes every day which I grew up, watching his talkshow in the 70´s And talked about politics, ANIMAL rights, Women´s rights Along with some other views and topics. Also, I do remember that when he had Mario Thomas that´s when they were talking, that´s where he met future wife to be and asked her on a date, from there it was all history. He was a Son, a Brother, a Father & Husband, a Grandfathers, Father-In-Law, also, he is looking down on his Family. May you the memories that you had with him, may you will be surrounded by family and friends with laughter eternal sorrow along with stories, cherish those memories of the Special occasions To look back on with the pictures! We all know that he is in a good place now, reunited with his youngest son James Donahue. May his Soul still lives on, as his Body has Departed Eternity back home to HEAVEN. My thoughts, prayers are with you, your family.
Jennifer
September 10, 2024
Jennifer
September 10, 2024
PHIL DONAHUE
Jennifer
September 10, 2024
Amie Ryan
September 10, 2024
I started watching The Donahue Show in the 1970s, when I would have been late elementary/early middle school age, and I remember the show often featured topics that were interesting to both my mother and to me, and often we'd watch it together and learn more about current trends/ public figures, and would lead to interesting discussions after the show. We both liked that you could count on Phil to be polite and fair, but to still ask the questions that we were thinking ourselves. I don't think any other show replaced The Donahue Show, it was one of a kind. Thank you for sharing your dad (and husband) with us. He made TV better, and not a lot of people can say that.
Ellen Costello
September 9, 2024
I started watching his show in my twenties. I learned so much from him.
Brenda Gillcrese
September 8, 2024
Straight to the point and honest talk
Eileen Grant
September 6, 2024
I think I was just out of high school when his show went nationwide.
Phil Donohue was groundbreaking in getting Americans to speak about current issues and domestic problems of the day.
I think what is striking in my memory is Phil Donohue's compassion and authentic ...'I care about you" on his show. He humanized every issue.
I only wish we would still have a show to address all the many problems in our world today.
We have lost our way, but the memory of an outstanding humanitarian and television pioneer as Phil Donohue will always remain.
May God bless his family with peace.
Nellie Thornton
September 4, 2024
I feel sad for Marlo. As a young married woman with 3 kids I watched Phil Donahue (between laundry, etc. :)) every day. I saw the show where Marlo, a young never married beautiful woman, came on as a guest. Immediately you could see the chemistry between them. Beautiful. He had, I believe 3 sons, raising them as a young single man. The rest is history. RIP Phil.
Jeff claude
September 3, 2024
He is an icon. Watched him growing up as my mother when she was a live watched his shows. He is a legacy and will always be remembered. My condolences goes to the friends and family.
Eric Bascom IV
September 2, 2024
Phil was always so calm. Had a few brief meetings with him at Notre Dame. I was a student across the street in Holy Cross JR College. Big Irish football fan. Very nice man. Went to one of his book signings and talks. He met with film and media students at Notre Dame. He donTed to help the students movie theater get some upgrades. My condolences to you and your family.
Isabel Lizaola
September 2, 2024
I remember watching his show in my early 20s and was fascinated by the guest and topics he chose. Rest in peace Phil Donahue.
Ernie Murdock
September 1, 2024
I liked the interview that Phil Donahue hosted with the newly elected Burlington mayor Bernard Sanders in 1981.
Linda Holder
August 31, 2024
In my twenties I lived near Dayton, Ohio. I was able to attend several of his shows either because I asked for tickets or the show asked for an audience. Many times well know and interesting people would come through the Dayton airport, get off the plane and tape a show to be shown at a later date. It was during those times that WLW-D would ask on their station for an audience. I´d call get a couple of tickets and zip up the road to sit in the audience.
One day a Laugh In comedian was on the show when I was in the audience. I always tried to ask an intelligent question so I´d be on the screen. Then I´d go home and watch myself on the afternoon show on the Cincinnati station, WLW-T, I think.
So, the Laugh-In comedian struggled to get a footing in acting. I stood up and said, "I enjoyed Marlo Thomas´ TV show, That Girl, because it showed how she struggled to survive and make a living each season until she finally became successful enough to make a living with her acting. What did you do to live and eat before you became a star ?"
That happened, of course, before Phil met Marlo. But I´ve often wondered if he ever remembered that question and that he married That Girl ?
He was a gracious host and stood at the door as we left telling us,"You look so much better in person." lol
SA GATLIN
August 30, 2024
What I gleaned as a young kid watching the Phil Donahue shows. To listen with your heart and mind. To have empathy.. but don't be afraid to speak up and voice your opinion as it matters. I'm glad he had the opportunity to have an impact on so many. My heart felt condolences to all his family. ~ SA Gatlin
Lisa Weiner
August 28, 2024
To Phil Donahue,
You were a great talk show host who gave people good advice. My prayers go to your family and friends., Lisa Weiner
Jan Clark
August 28, 2024
With deepest sympathy to Marlo & family, Janet Clark, Atlanta, GA
Leslie Adams
August 28, 2024
Hello Donahue Family, I'm trying feverishly to get to Phil's Service at St Patrick's Cathedral. Phil paid for my traveling expenses to attend in advance back when I helped with his arrangements. St Patrick's Cathedral also wanted to pay the expenses, but Phil is the one that actually paid. I don't know what to do. I love you all so much! I'm Marlo's third cousin in the Rockerfella Family Tree. Phil Donahue married well, when he married Marlo Thomas. Thank you for your service in the US Military Phil. Sincerely, Leslie Gross Adams
Susette Lawrence
August 27, 2024
Watched him as a young kid. I really listened to what he had to say. We need more people like him!!
Michele Oconnell
August 27, 2024
I Loved watching this show. It was smart, intelligent and spoke to me as a. Young woman. I was so happy when Phil and Marlo found each other and enjoy watching back that show as they find each other. I´m so sorry Phil was sink at the end of his life but he did have an amazing life. Love to the entire family.
RH
August 26, 2024
Heartfelt condolences to the family in your loss of Phil. Many of us remember is TV show. May the God of tender mercy and ALL comfort, comfort you during this time.
NORA JEAN YBARBO
August 26, 2024
Sincere condolences to the family. So much admiration, watched his show and gained so much insight. BACKBONE is how I would describe Phil. Not afraid to take on the establishment. Fought the good fight. Prayers, Peace and LOVE
KS
August 26, 2024
May Marlo and the family cherish the happy times spent together. John 11: 25,26
Donice Noelle ( Krampe-Jansen) Smith
August 25, 2024
My two favorite shows were watching my paternal Uncle Hugh O´Brian playing " Wyatt Earp" every week and the Phil Donahue Show! Both Men taught me that you can be anything you want to be! And if you get knocked down, brush yourself off, don´t quibble and keep going. "Failure" is in the Not trying As 35 Yrs Retired Military; 2022 Oregon Gubernatorial candidate.... And 2023 " Who´s Who" This kept me focused! Thank You Phil for your shows that taught me so much!
Mary Taylor
August 25, 2024
Marlo you married a wonderful compassionate man. He was always understanding with his guest, his show covered great topics and always kind with his guest. May God comfort you in the loss of your soul mate. Rest in peace Phil
faith c.tobin/brad j.herscot
August 25, 2024
Dear Donahue Family Brad and I would like to extend our condolences's to the family including Marlo Thomas.he'll surely be missed very much and may he rest in peace.best faith/brad
Matt daugherty
August 25, 2024
I loved his show since I was little he will be missed but never forgotten
Angela Comelli
August 25, 2024
As a little girl I watched Phil- a few times I faked sick to not miss a particular show. I was ten when I watched Phil and Marlo meet and could tell they liked each other. All these years later- your love and marriage - are an example to the world. Thank you to both of you.
May you feel his love everyday Marlo...until you meet again.
Sharon Bogdan
August 25, 2024
I loved watching and learning from The Phil Donahue Show interviews & audience responses/questions. My neighbor and I took a train to NYC to be in the audience (thrill of my life!). He signed his book for me & patted my head. I never wanted to wash my hair again! Loved his kind and humble spirit. Rest in peace & condolences to Marlo and family. Sharon Bogdan
Jacqueline M Heintz, Zumbrota MN
August 25, 2024
I am saddened by the death of Phil. He was my idol-watched him all the time- loved Milton Friedman, Ralph Nader (I became an advocate for elderly because of him), & so emotional when he had Ryan White on & they became friends. Loved that Phil ran up and down in tennis shoes for audience participation!
I Had the honor of being on Phil´s show in January 1991 as I wrote a letter, so me and 3 friends got on his show. Phil was great & took our side.
God bless you Phil-rest in peace. GOAT talk show host. Prayers to Marlo, his sons and grandchildren. I miss him!
SUSAN WADDLE
August 24, 2024
MARLO I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS MAY GOD HELP YOU DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME
Anna Bair
August 24, 2024
Phil you will be so missed RIP. I've watched you and Marlo since your eyes met . Miss seeing your walks together in Central Park. Love and sympathy to Marlo.
Yvonne G
August 24, 2024
I loved the Phil Donahue show! My favorite and most memorable guest was Marlo Thomas. I think many of us knew instinctively they would end up together. My condolences to his family and friends.
Susan Furman
August 23, 2024
Dear Marlo
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time as you mourn the loss of your husband Phil.May God comfort you as you mourn.Marlo I do wish I could chat with you.
Claire F
August 23, 2024
I always loved Phil Donahue as a person...I could see the kindness & goodness in his bright blue eyes...A kind, generous, compassionate, loving, humanitarian man, who loved to help people...I watched his talk daily over many years...Phil was the best talk show host of his time on Earth...We love you, miss you, bless you, with the Angels in Heaven, our loving friend Phil Donahue :-)
Suzanna Eckchum
August 22, 2024
I remembered always watching his talk show and found myself totally engaged! Phil Donahue, I wish to thank you from my heart for capturing my heart with your timeless topics, enlightening me with your heartfelt messages and inspirational moments! You were the finest original talk show host, and genuine artist, who will always touch my heart and million and million other hearts forever! Thank you for sharing your life and enhancing my life and opening the door for others.
Wishing you a beautiful blessed spiritual journey! Much Love and Happiness to you and your loved ones.
Suzanna Eckchum
RR
August 22, 2024
One of the best TV talk show hosts. He really brought new life and energy to hosting. Truly an icon. My sincere sympathies to the Donahue family, so very sorry for your loss, May God be with you in your time of loss.
Kyle Little
August 21, 2024
Thank You Mr. Donahue. That little Guy Sleeping is Now 34 Years Old & He's a Proud Business Owner With 2 New Jersey Locations.
Rest In Heaven Phil Donahue. Job Well Done
Theresa Fitzgerald
August 21, 2024
I never met Phil but grew up watching his talk show. My aunt also talked about him living in their Ohio neighborhood. May God bless his family during their time of loss. He was a good man.
Shawneequa Samuels-Sims
August 21, 2024
I remember loving Phil Donahue and his show. Always so interesting and informative. My sincere condolences to his family. Marlo, may his memory be a blessing.
Karen Brenneis
August 21, 2024
As a Clevelander from where Phil was born and raised, I enjoyed watching Donohue for many years starting in elementary school while I was on summer vacation. He was the best. He had such class and always took on special guests. Then into my adult years, I still admired him. He never got full of himself and stayed the same kind, humble person he was raised to be, and was proud from where he came from. My sincere condolences to Margo, his children and grandchilden. I know he is watching down on all of you. His memories and the time he spent with all of you will remain in your hearts forever. God Speed Phil Donohue.
Friend
August 21, 2024
You & Marlo were the sweetest couple!!!
Renee Sliman´s Grozenski
August 21, 2024
He set the bar for the gold standard. Rest in heavenly peace for a life well lived
Sandra Castiglioni
August 21, 2024
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Louise Joseph
August 21, 2024
We are sorry for your lose
Friend
August 21, 2024
kris imes
August 21, 2024
thank you for sharing your gift that GOD gave you
Donna James
August 21, 2024
I remember watching this great show in the 1970s, and it was so great. You made millions of viewers touch their hearts with greatness, skill and enthusiasm. So you will be In Heaven with other Late Greats: Richard Simmons, Dr Ruth Westheimer, Chita Rivera, Bob Barker, Willie Mays, Wally Amos, Jerry Springer, Bob Newhart, David Soul, Chi Chi Rodriguez, and Lou Dobbs.
Rest In Peace and Godspeed Mr Donahue!
EDO
August 21, 2024
I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the Donahue family on the loss of your dear loved one. Mr. Donahue was a media mogul and a talk show icon who was sincere to the art of sharing interesting topics and focusing on life's day to day problems, issues, achievements and struggles of the human spirit. He was a husband, a father, a grandfather and a true friend to all who knew him personally and professionally.
May the Donahue family always keep treasured memories of him in your heart. And may you find comfort knowing that God is aware of your pain, and may he give you the strength needed as you continue on this journey of life.
Sincerely,
Francis DeBernardo
August 21, 2024
I'm the director of New Ways Ministry, a national Catholic organization that works for LGBTQ+ equality, is grateful for the life and witness of Phil Donahue! Here's our tribute to him: https://www.newwaysministry.org/2024/08/20/r-i-p-phil-donahue-catholic-advocate-for-lgbtq-equality/
Helen Pappas Lias
August 21, 2024
May Phil's memory be eternal. He and Marlo were a blessed couple.
JOHN HOUSTON
August 21, 2024
We have never forgotten your kindness and support. Our deepest condolences to Marlo and family at your great loss.
The Houston Family (London)
Marie Michael
August 20, 2024
What a class act. I enjoyed watching his shows. I felt enlightened and enriched. Thank you for being a part of our life. Marlo and family, you have so many memories to hold onto.
School friend
August 20, 2024
Viv Saunders
August 20, 2024
I watched the show for 10 years whenever I could. His show got me through some very tough times, and gave me the confidence and insight into issues that mattered. Phil, you will never be forgotten.
Matthew J.McGuire
August 20, 2024
Your heart soon will be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Donna Meyers
August 20, 2024
I loved the Phil Donahue tv talk show! I´m just 2 years younger, but I learned so many life lessons from his show. Phil was there best talk show host ever, in my opinion. I was also happy for him when he met Marlo on his show, and then when they were married. My condolences and prayers for Marlo and family.
There will never be another like Phil Donahue and thank you for leading the way other talk show hosts.
Eleanor Calderone
August 20, 2024
our sympathy goes out to marlo and family the world will miss phils views and values
Susan Martin
August 20, 2024
I grew up watching Phil Donahue & I am a smarter 63 year old woman because of him.
He has always been a class act.
Sue Willard
August 20, 2024
Watched most all his Shows , always interesting. Had a long life !
Sue Willard
Gr. Mich.
Marty Dahlman
August 20, 2024
Dear Marlo and the entire Donahue Clan:
The Dahlman family offers our deepest condolences for Phil´s passing. He was a major force in our lives, from the early days fifty-seven-years ago in Dayton, when the Donahue Show "guests" often ended up at our house, to the heady days in Chicago and New York, as Phil changed the television world. He was always a huge part of Mom and Dad´s lives, even after Dad retired from broadcasting. And he included the rest of our family as well. We all remember the "That´s All Folks" cruise with the whole Donahue Show crew.
As Mom and Dad got older, Phil "checked-in", even arriving by yacht to their Florida condo. When Mom passed away, Phil arrived at the funeral, spoke to the family, then went to the pulpit to talk about both of our parents. It´s exactly what Mom would have wanted.
The world is dimmer for his passing, but we know Phil made a huge impact on the world. He also made a personal impact on all of us. Again, we are so sorry for your and our, loss.
Friend
August 20, 2024
Josh Monson
August 20, 2024
My dad liked Phil Donahue when he was younger
Diane Skopp
August 20, 2024
My favorite oops Donahue moment: the topic on that day was dentistry. Phil was chatting a female audience member. Donahue said "well is your husband a dentist?" To which she replied, NO, I Am a Dentist." Red faces match well with beautiful silver hair. C/O Diane Skopp 8/20/24
Jody brachman
August 19, 2024
I'm good u I was writing to you to give my condolences to you and your family etc rip i.loved his tv shows etc. He was a nice guy. I will miss him so. No rush take care
Elizabeth Bell
August 19, 2024
RIP Phil
Cynde
August 19, 2024
His beautiful head of hair
Dave Mann
August 19, 2024
Phil was outstanding as a host as he never insulted the viewers' intelligence. HE couyld penetrate his guests with questions that were rarely asked and he got the answers.
My condolences to his wife Marlo and family.
Lynn Bell
August 19, 2024
I wanted to express my condolences and prayers to Marlo and the family
HCCarter
August 19, 2024
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Jeanette Sexton
August 19, 2024
I watched his show faithfully for as long as it was airing. My deepest condolences go out to Marlo Thomas Donahue and his family and friends. He was an ICON of talk show hosts. Many prayers up for him, Marlo, AMD all family and friends.
Jeanette Sexton
Gainesville, FL
Tony Spirito
August 19, 2024
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