Andy Cohen brought guests into his clubhouse when Watch What Happens Live premiered in 2009. A mix of Bravo celebrities, Andy’s friends, and pop culture icons took turns playing stupid games and drinking from the shot-ski. It is funny and silly. But unfortunately, we recently learned of the passing of TV and talk show host legend, Phil Donahue.
Andy Cohen praised Phil Donahue
Variety reported that Phil passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2024. A statement from his family read, “Groundbreaking TV talk show journalist Phil Donahue died Sunday night at home surrounded by his wife of 44 years Marlo Thomas, his sister, his children, grandchildren and his beloved golden retriever Charlie. Donahue was 88 years old and passed away peacefully following a long illness.”
The Phil Donahue Show, Phil’s syndicated talk show, ran from 1969 until 1996. His talk show set the standard for all the other talk shows that followed. And that includes WWHL. According to heavy, Andy posted a photo of Phil with icon Oprah Winfrey in his Instagram Story.
But Andy didn’t stop there. He hopped over to X (formerly known as Twitter) and posted another tribute. “Phil Donahue was a singular talent who revolutionized daytime television, and the talk show itself. He also was an outspoken advocate for the gay community at a time when we had none. Thank you Phil Donahue! RIP,” Andy wrote.
Next, Andy commented on an Instagram post created by his friend, Sarah Jessica Parker. She posted a photo of Phil and wrote in the caption, “Thank you for multiple decades of smart, funny, informative and often very brave television. We honor you, your work and your devotion to your audience,” Sarah wrote.
“Amen. Revolutionized the talk show and a great early voice for feminism and the lgbt community,” Andy said in the comments.
It is mind-boggling to think that Phil was the first to give his mic to an audience member to share what was on their mind. He truly was a legend.
Reality Tea sends their condolences to Phil’s wife, Marlo Thomas, and their entire family.
TELL US – WHAT DID YOU THINK ABOUT ANDY’S TRIBUTES? DID YOU EVER WATCH THE PHIL DONAHUE SHOW?
