Television icon and WrestleMania VII celebrity guest Regis Philbin has died. He was 88-years-old.
Philbin’s family issued the following statement to People: “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.”
TMZ reports Philbin died early Saturday morning after suffering a heart attack at his home. They have not confirmed that with the family.
Philban was best known for co-hosting “Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee,” a nationally syndicated morning talk show still in existance today. He first co-hosted alongside Kathie Lee Gifford and later with Kelly Ripa. He left the show in 2011 and was replaced by Michael Strahan. He hosted the popular ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire’ game show from 1999 through 2002.
Philban was involved in several other TV projects and is known by wrestling fans for appearing at WrestleMania VII, where he interviewed The Undertaker and Paul Bearer. He was also on commentary for the show’s main event when Hulk Hogan beat Sgt. Slaughter to win the WWF World Heavyweight Championship.
In 2012, he recorded a segment where he congratulated WWE Raw for making it to 1000 episodes. WWE issued the following statement on passing:
“WWE is saddened to learn that legendary entertainment figure Regis Philbin has passed away at age 88.
WWE Superstars were frequent guests on Philbin’s morning show, “Live with Regis and Kathie Lee,” including Ultimate Warrior, “Ravishing” Rick Rude, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, “Macho Man” Randy Savage, John Cena and many more. Philbin even battled the massive Yokozuna in an epic tug-of-war on an episode.
The TV icon was also a memorable presence at WrestleMania VII where he conducted backstage interviews and provided commentary for the main event showdown between WWE Champion Sgt. Slaughter and Hulk Hogan. Regis also appeared on the historic Raw 1000, sending a classy congratulatory message to WWE.
WWE extends its condolences to Philbin’s family, friends and fans.”
WWE is saddened to learn that legendary entertainment figure Regis Philbin has passed away. We extend our condolences to his family, friends and fans. https://t.co/MuNtuOT6oq
— WWE (@WWE) July 25, 2020
We have embedded his segment with Undertaker and Paul Bearer at WrestleMania in the player above.
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