Kathie Lee Gifford Nostalgically Looks Back at Her Iconic Talk Show Days
At 70 years old, Kathie Lee Gifford is taking a walk down memory lane, reminiscing about some of the most memorable moments of her storied career. In a recent Instagram post, the beloved television personality shared a throwback photo from her time on Live With Regis and Kathie Lee. The caption read, “Missing the good ol’ days of Live With Regis and Kathie Lee! #tbt (Sorry for the crop Frank!).” It’s clear that Kathie Lee cherishes the memories from this iconic chapter of her life.
A Legacy of Partnership: From Regis to Hoda
Kathie Lee, who was married to the late Frank Gifford from 1986 until his passing in 2015, spent over a decade cohosting Live With Regis and Kathie Lee. Her decision to leave the show in 2000 marked the beginning of a new chapter in her career. In 2008, she joined forces with Hoda Kotb on Today With Kathie Lee and Hoda, where their chemistry quickly became the talk of the town. This partnership further cemented her status as a television icon. Her time on Today lasted until 2019, when she bid farewell with a heartfelt and emotional goodbye.
During her final days on the show, Kathie Lee expressed her reasons for stepping away. “The work that I want to do isn’t here anymore,” she said. “I am an artist, an actress, a writer, a songwriter, and a director. These are the things that truly nourish my soul, and I realize that time is running out to pursue these passions.” Her decision to leave the spotlight was not about abandoning success but about embracing her true calling.
Read also:Ryan Seacrest Breakdances On Wheel Of Fortunemdashand Pays The Price
Leaving the Limelight: A Courageous Choice
Years after her departure from the morning talk show circuit, Kathie Lee opened up about her bold decision to leave not one but two high-profile shows. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight in August 2022, she shared, “So many people asked me, ‘How could you leave your dream job? Twice, at the peak of its success?’ But the truth is, those shows were never my ultimate dream. My dream job is what I’m doing now. Right now, at the age of 69, as of yesterday.” Her honesty and authenticity have resonated with fans, proving that following your heart is always the right choice.
Regis Philbin, her beloved cohost, passed away on July 25, 2020, at the age of 88. Kathie Lee paid tribute to her dear friend and colleague in an emotional Instagram post. “There are no words to fully express the love I have for my precious friend, Regis. I simply adored him, and every day with him was a gift,” she wrote. “We spent 15 years together laughing, bantering, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Even as we parted, I know that somewhere in Heaven, he’s spreading joy and laughter.”
“Finding comfort in knowing that Regis had a deep and personal relationship with his Lord brings me peace,” she added. “My heart goes out to Joy, his children, and all the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable career. There has never been, and never will be, anyone quite like him.”
Pursuing New Passions and Leaving a Legacy
In recent years, Kathie Lee has shifted her focus to other creative pursuits, including singing, songwriting, writing books, and acting. This year, she collaborated with her daughter, Cassidy Gifford, on the series The Baxters, based on novels by Karen Kingsbury. Speaking about the project, Kathie Lee told Parade in March 2024, “It’s always rewarding to work with loved ones on projects that ignite passion. I’ve paid my dues, and now I want to collaborate with wonderful people who produce quality work.”
Beyond her professional endeavors, Kathie Lee is a devoted grandmother to her three grandsons, Frankie, Ford, and Finn. She often shares glimpses of her heartwarming moments with them on social media, showcasing the importance of family in her life. “Every day, I’m reminded of the incredible support system I have,” she told Closer in July 2024. “People approach me and say, ‘I’ve watched you my whole life. Thank you.’ Those words bring me immense joy. Ultimately, what matters most in life is the impact we have on others and the connections we make.”
