Television hosts Kathie Lee Gifford and Regis Philbin became household names through their work on Live with Regis and Kathie Lee. They were also well known for the chemistry between them and their engaging hosting style, which earned them eight consecutive Daytime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Talk Show Host from 1993 to 2000. Their time on the show made them one of television’s most beloved duos.
However, beyond television, they had an enviable friendship. They supported each other through life’s changes and stayed in touch even after Kathie Lee left the show in 2000. Sadly, Regis passed away in 2020, and she mourned not just a colleague but a dear friend.
Kathie Lee Gifford’s emotional tribute to Regis Philbin
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On February 7, 2025, Kathie Lee took to Instagram to express how much she misses Regis. She posted a throwback photo of them together on set, where they shared moments of laughter. In her caption, she wrote, “Forever grateful for the moments shared and the laughter we spread.” Kathie Lee shared that he certainly made her happy for the 35 years that they were great friends.
They were more than just co-hosts. While he was still alive, Regis once said their time together was the best part of his TV career. Even after Kathie Lee left Live with Regis and Kathie Lee, they remained close. His death was a painful loss for Kathie Lee, who described him as one of her dearest friends
Regis Philbin passed away in 2020
Regis Philbin passed away in July 2020 at the age of 88 due to a heart attack caused by coronary artery disease. Kathie Lee later shared that the COVID-19 pandemic had taken a toll on him, as he could no longer be out in public entertaining people.
She recalled how much he loved making others happy. “He couldn’t be Regis for people, and it broke his heart,” she said during an appearance on The Talk. Since Regis’ death, Kathie Lee has continued to pay tribute to him while focusing on new projects. After leaving Today in 2019, she pursued a career in filmmaking and writing.