Marlo Thomas has shared a heartfelt message following the passing of her husband, the legendary talk show host Phil Donahue. Her words resonate with grace, love, and gratitude as she navigates this profound loss.
“Hello, Friends. I know by now you’ve all heard the devastating news. I lost my dearest love last night,” Marlo wrote in an Instagram post on Monday, August 19. “Because of this, I’ll need to step away for a while to focus on healing and taking care of myself, as well as honoring the many people who cared for Phil and held him close to their hearts.”
In her emotional caption, she continued, “But before I take this break, I wanted to sincerely thank each of you for the kind and loving messages you’ve sent. Your support means the world to me. Over the years, you’ve allowed Phil and me to share pieces of our lives with you, and for that, I am forever grateful.”
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“Phil always cherished his connection with his audiences, and I know he would have been deeply moved by the warm thoughts and cherished memories you’ve shared,” she added. “As I step back, I hope you’ll continue to cherish those closest to you, just as I was so blessed to do with my beloved Phillip.”
“Until we meet again, I wish you all good health and joyous days surrounded by loved ones,” Marlo concluded. “With all my heart, thank you. Love, Marlo. P.S. This picture of Phil and me on vacation is one of my favorites.”
The image Marlo shared was a nostalgic throwback photo of her and Phil sitting together on a Vespa. Since the news of his passing, tributes have poured in from friends, fans, and fellow celebrities alike, celebrating the life and legacy of the beloved television icon.
Forty-Four Years of Love and Partnership
Marlo and Phil were married for an incredible 44 years, a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Phil passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on Sunday, August 18, surrounded by his family, including his cherished wife, Marlo Thomas, his sister, his children, grandchildren, and even his beloved golden retriever, Charlie.
Throughout their long and loving marriage, Marlo and Phil often opened up about the secrets behind their strong relationship. They credited their bond to mutual respect, unwavering support, and a shared commitment to making each other's dreams a reality.
Marlo Reflects on Their Marriage
“So many people never find a true partner in life. Some marry someone who tears them down or doesn’t truly invest in their dreams,” Marlo explained in a heartfelt interview with Closer in April 2020. “I’ve been so fortunate. No matter how wild my ideas might get, Phil has always encouraged me. He’d say, ‘You should do that! You’d be amazing at it.’ I am endlessly grateful for that kind of partnership.”
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Keeping the Spark Alive
Married since 1980, Marlo and Phil maintained a vibrant and loving relationship, even through life’s toughest challenges. “When things get rough, you don’t look for an exit. You find a way to stay,” Marlo once said. “Kyra Sedgwick summed it up perfectly when she said, ‘When you get married, you can’t have a plan B. There’s no plan B!’”
Phil, who was a father to five children—four sons and a daughter from his previous marriage to Margaret Cooney—welcomed his children into his life after his 1975 divorce. “I married a man who already belonged to many people, including his four sons who lived with him,” Marlo revealed in a May 2020 interview with Closer. “It was a big adjustment for me, but I embraced it because I loved Phil, and his kids are wonderful. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth every moment.”
