Kathie Lee Gifford Remembers Regis Philbin, Expresses Gratitude 5 Years After His Death

Kathie Lee Gifford Reflects on Missing Regis Philbin Five Years After His Passing

Kathie Lee Gifford has expressed her ongoing feelings of missing her longtime friend Regis Philbin, nearly five years after the beloved TV icon passed away. On February 7, Gifford took to Instagram, sharing a nostalgic photo of the duo, who cohosted the popular show Live with Regis and Kathie Lee from 1985 to 2000. Accompanying the image, she wrote a heartfelt message, saying she is “forever grateful for the moments shared and the laughter we spread.”

In the treasured photo, both stars are seen smiling joyfully on set, with Regis playfully showcasing his bicep. Their dynamic partnership not only brought entertainment to millions but also earned them notable recognition, including eight consecutive nominations for Outstanding Talk Show Host at the Daytime Emmy Awards from 1993 to 2000.

After Gifford announced her departure from Live in 2000, Philbin ensured she received a proper send-off. In an emotional video tribute, he shared, “Kathie Lee, you want to know the best part of my life? My TV life? It was in the 15 years I spent with you. We stayed friends through the entire game, and it was a lot of fun.” He further praised her, saying he was confident she would achieve great success in her new endeavors.

Following their successful run together, Gifford transitioned to the Today show where she teamed up with Hoda Kotb from 2008 until April 2019 when she was succeeded by Jenna Bush Hager. Meanwhile, Philbin continued his television legacy with Kelly Ripa, cohosting Live! With Regis and Kelly until his retirement in 2011. In announcing his exit that January, Regis remarked, “It was the biggest thrill of my life,” reflecting on his remarkable career.

Regis Philbin, who set a Guinness World Record for the Most Hours on Camera in 2004, sadly passed away from a heart attack attributed to coronary artery disease in July 2020 at the age of 88. In her heartfelt tribute, Gifford reminisced about the joy of their friendship, recalling their playful banter and shared laughter.

In a retrospective interview, she noted some of the challenges Philbin faced in his final months, highlighting that he struggled with depression during the COVID pandemic. Gifford revealed, “Regis couldn’t perform anywhere, nobody was out and about, and it broke his heart.” She concluded with appreciation for their 35 years of friendship, stating, “He certainly made me happy.”