Phil Donahue

Phillip John Donahue, born December 21, 1935, is an American media personality, writer, and film producer. He is best known as the creator and host of The Phil Donahue Show, which aired from 1967 to 1996 and was the first talk show to include audience participation. Throughout its 29-year run, the show tackled various controversial topics, including abortion, consumer protection, civil rights, and war issues. Donahue also briefly hosted a talk show on MSNBC from 2002 to 2003. Considered one of the most influential talk show hosts, he has been referred to as the 'king of daytime talk.' Donahue's contributions to the genre have had a lasting impact, and Oprah Winfrey has credited him as an inspiration for her own successful talk show.