Hollywood legend Marlo Thomas has shared a tearjerking message on Instagram in which she addresses the passing of her beloved husband—iconic TV personality Phil Donahue. Accompanied by a beautiful nostalgic photo of the duo, taken from a favorite memory of hers, Thomas’ words, posted on August 19, are enough to bring tears to the eyes.
“Hello, Friends. I’m sure by now you’ve heard the very sad news that I lost my sweetheart last night, so I know you understand that I’ll be stepping away from this page for a while to take care of myself and the many people who took care of Phil, and held him close to their hearts,” the actress began.
Thomas went on to say that before taking her hiatus to heal, she wanted to let the public know how unbelievably grateful she is to have received “beautiful messages of love and support” from countless people.
The “That Girl” star also graciously thanked all of her and Donahue’s supporters for allowing the couple to share their amazing life adventures with them over the years.
She reminisced about how her late husband, known for his love for his audience, took pleasure in being a part of the community where he and Thomas lived.
“I know he would be very touched by the heartwarming thoughts and memories you’ve been sharing,” Thomas stated. The rest of her sentimental message goes on to wish health and happiness to all, which she hopes people will cherish with their loved ones.
“I hope that you will continue to hold close those you cherish most, just as I was blessed to do with my beloved Phillip. Love, Marlo,” Thomas expressed.
At the end of her caption, she gushes about the beautiful image she shared, in which she and Donahue are seen enjoying a scooter ride together during a vacation. She called it one of her favorite photos of her and Donahue.
As mentioned earlier, Marlo Thomas‘ heartfelt message comes after we previously announced that Donahue passed away at 88 years old on Sunday night, August 18.
His doting wife of 44 years (Thomas) and the rest of his family, confirmed his passing via a statement they shared with “Today”—a show he regularly appeared on in the ’80s.
Phil Donahue at the American Icon Awards in Beverly Hills, California on May 19, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
The longtime TV talk show host’s loved ones disclosed that he had died after enduring a long illness. At this stage, his family, including his wife, children, his grandchildren, and his sister, have not provided further details apart from the fact that Donahue died surrounded by them and his beloved golden retriever.
“Today’s” Craig Melvin and Sheinelle Jones announced the tragic news during a segment on Monday morning, August 19. In addition to his loved ones, Donahue leaves behind an incredible legacy, having begun his career all the way back in 1959. He worked in radio before TV.
Phil Donahue posing with his Emmy awards in New York in 1979. | Source: Getty Images
Donahue was a pioneer of the modern format of issue-based daytime talk shows, as he was one of the first to feature shows that included participation from audience members. “The Phil Donahue Show” garnered unprecedented success, becoming one of the most influential TV programs of its era.
Phil Donahue taping a show with the audience in the Donahue studio in 1979. | Source: Getty Images
In 2002, the icon returned to television to host an MSNBC show called “Donahue.” However, the program was canceled a few months after it debuted. Aside from his TV pursuits, Donahue received an esteemed award from President Joe Biden in May 2024.
President Joe Biden honoring Phil Donahue with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in Washington, DC. on May 3, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
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He and 18 other people were awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which, according to reports, is the US’s highest civilian honor.
A statement about the award made by the White House explains that the honor is bestowed upon “individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors.”
President Joe Biden honoring Phil Donahue with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in Washington, DC. on May 3, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
To honor the everlasting impact Donahue made during his life and commemorate his legacy, his family requested that instead of flowers, donations be made to the Phil Donahue/Notre Dame Scholarship Fund or the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
“You know, we overuse sometimes the word trailblazer, but he certainly was, indeed,” Jones expressed in the announcement.
RIP, dear Phil Donahue. In this great time of grief, we pray for healing for the late star’s family and close ones as they mourn the loss of such a bright spark in the world.
