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Legendary TV host Regis Philbin has died at the age of 88

Legendary TV host Regis Philbin has died at the age of 88, reports say
Posted at 3:26 PM, Jul 25, 2020
and last updated 2020-07-25 16:33:25-04

NEW YORK, N.Y. – Legendary television host Regis Philbin has died at the age of 88, People Magazine and ABC News report.

According to a family statement obtained by People and ABC, Philbin passed away from natural causes Friday night, one month shy of his 89th birthday.

The statement goes on to say that Philbin’s loved ones are forever grateful for the time they got to spend with him, his warmth, his sense of humor and his ability to make every day into something worth talking about.

“We thank his fans and admirers for their incredible support over his 60-year career and ask for privacy as we mourn his loss," the statement ends.

For years, Philbin hosted “Live! With Regis and Kathie Lee” before Kathie Lee Gifford left and Kelly Ripa took her place on the nationally-syndicated morning talk show.

Ripa and her current co-host Ryan Seacrest posted a tribute to Philbin on Instagram soon after hearing the news of his passing.

Philbin was also known for hosting “Who Wants to be a Millionaire,” as well as acting and singing. According Guinness World Records, the New York native held the record for the most time on U.S. television, with about 16,746.50 hours.

Philbin is survived by his wife, Joy, and three daughters, Joanna, Amy and J.J. His son, Daniel, passed away a few years ago.

Fellow TV host Jimmy Kimmel was among the first celebrities to pay his respects on social media.

President Donald Trump, a friend of Philbin, also shared his condolences.