Phil Donahue, the legendary US talk show host, has passed away at the age of 88. His family confirmed the news to US media, stating that Donahue died peacefully at his home on Sunday after a long illness, surrounded by loved ones.

Throughout his career, Donahue was honored with 20 Emmy Awards, split evenly between outstanding host and the talk show itself. Earlier this year, he was awarded the Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden, the highest civilian honor in the United States.