Legendary TV icon Regis Philbin passed away at the age of 88 following a successful career that had spanned for more than six decades.
According to People, the actor’s family confirmed that the TV presenter died from natural causes on Saturday, whereas he was surrounded by his loved ones at the time of his passing.
In a tribute to one of America’s most renowned TV presenters, the family praised Philbin’s “legendary sense of humor” and suggested he had the “ability to make every day into something worth talking about.”
“We are deeply saddened to share that our beloved Regis Philbin passed away last night of natural causes, one month shy of his 89th birthday,” the family said in a statement to People.
“… 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 ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?’ and ‘Live!’ host was born in 1931. Before kicking off his career in the film industry, Philbin joined the US Navy and served as a Supply Corps Officer from 1953 to 1955.
Philbin’s first job in the entertainment industry dates back to 1955 when he appeared on The Tonight Show that was hosted by its co-creator Steve Allen.
In the two decades that followed, Philbin secured a series of on-screen roles and appeared on numerous talk shows.
A major breakthrough in his career occurred in 1985 when Philbin joined Kathie-Lee Gifford in the morning show ‘Live!’.
For 15 years, the two presenters entertained millions of Americans and became famous for their positive on-screen energy. In 2001, Kelly Ripa replaced Gifford on the program, and in 2011, Philbin left the program for good.
Between the years 1999 and 2002, as well as between the years 2004 and 2009, the popular TV presenter also hosted ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?’, one of ABC’s all-time favorite shows.
In 2006, Philbin also contributed to the success of America’s Got Talent by hosting the entertainment show’s first season.
May he rest in peace.
Replaced!