Regis Philbin on set during Regis Philbin’s Final Show of “Live! with Regis & Kelly” .
(Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images)Regis Philbin passed away at his home in New York on Saturday. He was 88 years old.
His family released a statement saying; "His family and friends are forever grateful for the time we got to spend with him, for his warmth, his legendary sense of humor, and his singular ability to make every day into something worth talking about. We thank his fans and admirers for their incredible support over his 60-year career and ask for privacy as we mourn his loss."
He was an icon, and he touched so many lives along the way. Here's what some closest to him had to say:
Kathie Lee Gifford: “I simply adored him and every day with him was a gift. We spent 15 years together bantering and bickering and laughing ourselves silly — a tradition and a friendship we shared up to this very day. I smile knowing somewhere in Heaven, at this very moment, he’s making someone laugh: It brings me great comfort knowing that he had a personal relationship with his Lord that brought him great peace. I send all the love in my heart to Joy, to his children, to the rest of his family and to the innumerable people he touched over his legendary life. There has never been anyone like him. And there never will be.”
David Letterman: “In the same category as Carson. Superlative. He was on our show a million times, always the best guest we ever had, charming, lovable and could take a punch. When he retired I lost interest in television. I love him.”
Kelly Ripa: “We are beyond saddened to learn about the loss of Regis Philbin. He was the ultimate class act, bringing his laughter and joy into our homes every day on Live for more than 23 years. We were beyond lucky to have him as a mentor in our careers and aspire every day to fill his shoes on the show. We send our deepest love and condolences to his family and hope they can find some comfort in knowing he left the world a better place.”
Josh Gad: "This one hurts. A staple in our household growing up, his joy was infectious and his hosting skills among the greatest I've ever seen. Whether on "Live" or leading "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" he was always captivating & hilarious. #RIPRegis"
Jimmy Kimmel: "Regis was a great broadcaster, a good friend and a tremendous amount of fun. He leaves behind a beautiful family and a TV legacy that will likely go unmatched. Regis, I hope our friend Rickles met you at the pearly gates with open arms and a slew of the insults you loved so much."
Billy Eichner: "RIP REGIS!!! A real icon. Nothing will ever top Regis and @KathieLGifford as a morning show. Nothing!"
Bob Saget: "What a loss—The wonderful Regis Philbin. I met him in 1985 when I was on the Rodney Dangerfield Young Comedians Special and we loved each other ever since. Such a TV icon and above all, a good man. My sympathies to Joy and all of his children and friends."
Katie Couric: "Im so sad to hear this news. Beloved television host Regis Philbin died on July 24th. He was 88 years old...Sending love and strength to his family and friends. #restinpeace #regisphilbin"
Bret Michaels: "My deepest condolences go out to the family & friends of #RegisPhilbin. I had the honor of being on LIVE several times including his final week of episodes with the song #FarewellToRegis. Regis was always awesome & the best. He will be missed."
Maria Shriver: "Regis was a legendary figure in TV. There was no one like him. I used to love watching him. He was always up, always genuine, always real. God bless, Regis. #ripregis #RegisPhilbin"
Chris Harrison: "We throw this word around too much but Regis Philbin was a legend. He was a true gentleman I'm glad I got to know and a TV host I admired and was honored to follow. Much like Arnold Palmer everybody has a great 'Regis' story, I'm grateful I have mine."
