Phil Donahue, the trailblazing host whose talk show revolutionized daytime television, has passed away at the age of 88. Known for introducing audience participation into the genre, Donahue's innovative approach set the stage for the success of future talk show hosts like Oprah Winfrey, Montel Williams, and Ellen DeGeneres. According to NBC’s “Today” show, Donahue died on Sunday following a prolonged illness.

Debuting in Dayton, Ohio, in 1967, "The Phil Donahue Show" became renowned for its unique format, featuring in-depth conversations on controversial topics such as feminism, consumer protection, and civil rights. The show, which ran nationally for 26 years, earned Donahue numerous accolades, including 20 Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award. In May, President Joe Biden honored Donahue with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his groundbreaking work in daytime television.

Donahue’s impactful career was complemented by his personal life; he was married to actress Marlo Thomas for 44 years, a romance that began when Thomas appeared on his show in 1977. Besides his television work, Donahue co-directed the Oscar-nominated documentary "Body of War" and collaborated with Soviet journalist Vladimir Posner on a pioneering discussion series during the Cold War. His contributions to media and culture will be remembered as a significant chapter in television history.

(Sources: AFP, AP)