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Phil Donahue, TV Talk Show Pioneer, Dies at 88

Phil Donahue, the pioneering TV talk show host, passed away at the age of 88. His program, initially titled "The Phil Donahue Show" and later shortened to "Donahue," was immensely popular in the 1970s and 1980s. It revolutionized the format by incorporating audience participation and addressing significant social issues. Oprah Winfrey acknowledges Donahue's influence in paving the way for her own successful talk show.

The innovative format of Donahue's show was born out of serendipity in 1967. The cancellation of a variety show in Dayton, Ohio, resulted in an unplanned interview session with an audience, which later became a standard feature.

Donahue was a staunch advocate for women's rights and a feminist. He observed and celebrated the advancements women had achieved from the 1960s to his era.

In honor of his legacy, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Phil Donahue/Notre Dame Scholarship Fund.

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