• Faith: Christian - Catholic
• Career: TV Personality
• Birthday:  December 21, 1935
• Date of Death:  August 18, 2024

Phil Donahue was a writer, film producer and the creator and host of "The Phil Donahue Show." The television program, later known simply as "Donahue," was the first talk show format that included audience participation. Known for revolutionizing the talk show format and tackling pressing social issues, Donahue's career spanned decades.

Phil Donahue was born on December 21, 1935, in Cleveland, Ohio, to a working-class Irish Catholic family. His father, Phillip Donahue, was a furniture salesman, and his mother, Catherine Donahue, was a shoe clerk. Raised in a devout Catholic household, Donahue attended Our Lady of Angels elementary school and later St. Edward High School, where the values of faith, hard work, and compassion were instilled in him from a young age.

Donahue's Catholic upbringing played a significant role in shaping his worldview. He was deeply influenced by the teachings of the Church, particularly its emphasis on social justice and the dignity of the individual. These principles would later become central to his work as a journalist and talk show host, where he often explored issues of inequality, civil rights, and the human condition.

After graduating from high school, Donahue attended the University of Notre Dame, a Catholic institution that further solidified his commitment to his faith. He graduated with a degree in business administration in 1957, but his passion for storytelling and a desire to make a difference in the world led him to pursue a career in journalism.

Phil Donahue began his career in journalism as a radio and television producer in Dayton, Ohio. It was here that he developed the concept for "The Phil Donahue Show," a daytime talk show that would change the face of television. The show first aired in 1967 and quickly gained popularity for its innovative format and willingness to tackle controversial topics.

Unlike other talk shows of the time, Donahue's show was centered on audience participation, allowing viewers to ask questions and engage directly with the guests. This format created a dynamic and interactive environment that brought important social issues to the forefront of public discourse. Donahue's show covered a wide range of topics, including civil rights, gender equality, and the Vietnam War, making it a platform for voices that were often marginalized in mainstream media.

"The Phil Donahue Show" became one of the most influential programs of its time, earning multiple Emmy Awards and paving the way for future talk show hosts like Oprah Winfrey and Geraldo Rivera. Donahue's ability to connect with his audience and his commitment to exploring difficult and often controversial subjects made him a trailblazer in the industry.

In addition to his work on his own show, Donahue regularly appeared on *Today* from 1979 to 1988, further solidifying his status as a prominent figure in American television. He returned to TV briefly in 2002, hosting a show on MSNBC, but it was canceled after several months. Despite this, Donahue's legacy as a pioneer of modern talk shows remains unmatched.

Phil Donahue was married twice in his lifetime. His first marriage to Margaret Cooney in 1958 resulted in five children: Michael, Kevin, Daniel, Mary Rose, and James. The couple divorced in 1975, but Donahue remained a dedicated father, deeply involved in the lives of his children.

In 1980, Donahue married actress and activist Marlo Thomas, a union that would last for 44 years until his death in 2024. Together, they were involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly those related to children's welfare and education. Marlo Thomas, known for her work with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, often spoke of the profound impact Donahue had on her life, both personally and professionally.

On August 18, 2024, Phil Donahue passed away at the age of 88, following a long illness. His death marked the end of an era in American television, but his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched through his work. Donahue's passing was announced by his family, who described him as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother.

In their statement, the family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and requested that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Phil Donahue/Notre Dame Scholarship Fund in lieu of flowers. These causes, both deeply meaningful to Donahue, reflect his lifelong commitment to helping others and his belief in the power of education to transform lives.

Phil Donahue's Religious Beliefs

Phil Donahue's Catholic faith was a guiding force throughout his life and career. Raised in a devout Catholic family, he remained committed to the teachings of the Church, particularly its emphasis on social justice and compassion for the marginalized. This commitment was evident in his work as a talk show host, where he often used his platform to advocate for the rights of the oppressed and to challenge societal norms.

Donahue's faith also influenced his personal life, particularly in his approach to marriage and family. He and Marlo Thomas were active members of their parish and often participated in charitable activities that reflected their shared values. Donahue's belief in the power of faith to effect positive change in the world was a driving force behind his work, both on and off the screen.