There’s nothing like a good old-fashioned laugh, and Kathie Lee Gifford delivered just that when she had her pal Hoda Kotb in stitches on Today. The legendary TV personality pulled out all the stops with an uncanny impersonation of her late friend and cohost, Regis Philbin. It was a moment that brought back so many fond memories for fans of the iconic duo.
Kathie Lee Returns to Today with a New Book
At 70 years young, Kathie Lee made a rare appearance on the beloved talk show to promote her latest literary effort, Herod and Mary: The True Story of the Tyrant King and the Mother of the Risen Savior. The visit happened on July 17, and it was an emotional reunion for Kathie Lee and Hoda, who cohosted Today together for 11 unforgettable years.
As Kathie Lee sat down with Hoda, she couldn’t resist channeling Regis’ trademark wit. With a mischievous grin, she deepened her voice and said, “Do you know what Regis would say to you about this book? ‘And yet another book, you’ll never read!’” It was classic Regis, and it had Hoda cracking up as the show went to a commercial break. Fans watching at home were transported back to the golden days of Live With Regis and Kathie Lee.
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A Decade-Long Partnership That Left Its Mark
Speaking of those golden days, Kathie Lee cohosted Live With Regis and Kathie Lee from the 1980s until the year 2000. During that time, she and Regis formed a bond that transcended their professional relationship. Their chemistry on-screen was undeniable, and even after they stopped working together, their friendship remained rock solid. Now, Kathie Lee is keeping Regis’ memory alive by sharing stories like these with a new generation of viewers.
A Playful Exchange Between Kathie Lee and Hoda
Later in the segment, Kathie Lee couldn’t help but tease Hoda for only reading two pages of her book. In true Hoda fashion, the host fired back with a lighthearted jab of her own, saying, “I read three. You’re welcome!” It was a playful exchange that showcased the deep affection and mutual respect between the two women.
When Kathie Lee bid farewell to Today in April 2019, it was an emotional moment for everyone involved. In her final episode, she reminded the audience of what made the show special: the joy, love, and respect shared between the hosts and their viewers. She left on a high note, assuring fans that her friendship with Hoda would endure long after her departure.
During her final episode, Regis made a surprise appearance via video to send Kathie Lee off with heartfelt words of encouragement. He said, “Kathie Lee, the best part of my TV life was with the 15 years I spent with you from 1985 to 2000. We stayed friends through the entire game, and it was a lot of fun. Where you are right now, I know you’re going to be moving on to a great new career making movies and, since I’ve seen the first one, I know you’re going to be a great success. I really mean it!”
Regis passed away on July 25, 2020, at the age of 88 due to natural causes. Reflecting on their final meeting, Kathie Lee shared how much it meant to her. “They came over about two weeks ago,” she said during a Today appearance. “I saw Reg get out of the car with Joy and I sensed much more fragility than I had seen in him since the last time in January out in Los Angeles.”
Now living in Nashville, Kathie Lee cherishes the memories she made with Regis and his wife, Joy Philbin. She recounted sitting on her porch with them, laughing and reminiscing about the good times. “We became dear friends through the years since then. Always, always getting together every chance we could and just picking up right where we left off. We just had the best time,” she shared. “After they left, I thought to myself, ‘Lord, is that the last time I am going to see my friend?’ Because he was failing. I could tell.”
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