Phil Donahue wasn’t just a trailblazer in television; he was also Marlo Thomas’s beacon of love for over four decades. As you can imagine, the loss is monumental, and Marlo took to Instagram to share her heartfelt thanks for all the support.
Thomas, with her signature grace, posted a nostalgic picture of her and Phil on a sunny getaway, looking all sorts of adorable on a moped. She wrapped her arms around him, a gesture that epitomized their love and camaraderie.
“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,” Thomas wrote in an emotional caption.
For those who may not know, Phil Donahue changed the TV landscape with his iconic show “The Phil Donahue Show,” introducing studio audience participation on pressing social issues. Sadly, he passed away at the age of 88 after a protracted illness.
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Marlo Thomas Reflects on Phil Donahue’s Impact and Fan Tributes
Thomas wasn’t just acknowledging the loss, she was marveling at the outpouring of love from fans. “Thank you for your beautiful messages of love and support,” she wrote. “For the wonderful and generous way that you’ve let Phil and me share our life adventure with you over the years.”
Phil loved his audiences dearly, and oh, how he would be tickled by the heartfelt tributes fans have been sending in. This was a man who enjoyed every ounce of interaction and Marlo knows he’d be “very touched” by your words.
Flashback: Thomas first appeared on Phil’s talk show in 1977. The chemistry was instant, and they tied the knot just three years later. “We went out the very next night and were together from then on,” Thomas reminisced in a 2020 interview. It’s not every day you find love on a talk show set, as Thomas quipped, “I didn’t fall in love with Johnny Carson, you know?”
The couple even co-wrote a book in 2020 titled “What Makes a Marriage Last,” inspired by their enduring partnership. It’s the kind of heartwarming read that dives deep into what binds two people together through thick and thin.
Stars too are mourning the loss. Oprah Winfrey, among others, paid tribute to Phil, calling him a true “pioneer” in broadcasting.
Marlo signed off her Instagram message with a tender wish for her fans. “Until I return, I wish you good health and happy days in the company of family and friends. And I hope that you will continue to hold close those you cherish most, just as I was blessed to do with my beloved Phillip.”
