Phil Donahue, the pioneering TV talk show host known for revolutionising the daytime television landscape, has died at the age of 88. Donahue died Sunday night at home after a long illness, his family confirmed Monday, August 19, to Today.

Surrounded by his wife of 44 years, Marlo Thomas, along with his sister, children, grandchildren, and his golden retriever, Charlie, Donahue spent his final moments in the comfort of his loved ones.

Three months prior to his death, Donahue was honoured with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden, recognising his significant contributions to broadcasting and public discourse.