Phil Donahue was confirmed dead at 88 this week after suffering from a long-term illness that his family has yet to disclose. His wife of over four decades, Marlo Thomas, announced the tragic news via a statement to ABC News, with a request for donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Phil Donahue/Notre Dame Scholarship Fund.
Phil was known and loved across the country for his interview style, which kept the audience glued to their seats and happy to participate. Speaking of which, the chemistry between him and Marlo began on a 1977 episode of The Phil Donahue Show.
Chemistry at first chat
Marlo admitted they shared an instant connection on his show in the ‘70s, and the late TV personality agreed. Marlo even complimented him, saying whatever woman he was with was the lucky one, not knowing she would hit the jackpot three years later.
RELATED: Phil Donahue Made History As First To Host An AIDS Patient On Live Television
They had met for the first time in 1972 in Dayton, Ohio but never really interacted until then. The duo tied the knot in May 1980, and have since shared such a strong commitment to each other that they co-wrote What Makes a Marriage Last: 40 Celebrated Couples Share with Us the Secrets to a Happy Life in 2020.
Marlo grieves the loss of her lover
Losing her lover has been tough for Marlo, however she appears to take solace in his legacy and the beautiful memories they shared. She took to Instagram to pen a lengthy tribute to her late husband, which she accompanied with an adorable throwback photo of them on a moped.
Marlo mentioned back in May that they had taken a break from their busy schedules to relax and get back to work later, not knowing she did not have much time with Phil anymore. She thanked their fans and asked for privacy as she took a hiatus from social media.
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