US daytime talk show star Phil Donahue has been remembered by his wife Marlo Thomas following his death aged 88. The broadcaster, whose daytime talk show paved the way for the likes of future stars including Oprah Winfrey and Montel Williams, died on Sunday after a long illness. US actress Thomas shared “one of my favourite photos of Phil and me” which was taken while the couple were on holiday sitting on a moped together.
“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,” 86-year-old Thomas wrote on Instagram. “But I didn’t want to disappear without saying thank you for the beautiful messages of love and support that have been coming in all day, and for the wonderful and generous way that you’ve let Phil and me share our life adventure with you over the years. “As a man who spent his career loving his audiences, Phil got such a kick out of our cozy little community here, and I know he would be very touched by the heartwarming thoughts and memories you’ve been sharing.
“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.” Thomas starred in the hit US sitcom Friends, playing.