Looking Back on a Legendary Partnership
Former daytime TV talk show host Kathie Lee Gifford took a moment to reminisce about some cherished memories from the years she spent working alongside the late Regis Philbin, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 88. It’s a partnership that left an indelible mark on television history, and Kathie Lee recently opened up about it with heartfelt words.
In a candid interview with Entertainment Tonight published on Wednesday, April 24, Kathie Lee, now 70, shared her perspective on what truly matters in life. "I look at [my Emmys] and I’m grateful, thank you, Lord," she said. "But my trophies are the people that I’ve touched in life, the people [in] both of those places." She went on to express that, while awards are nice, the real treasures in life are the connections we make with others. "I’ve worked 15 years with Regis, and 11 years with Hoda," she continued. "The trophies we gather in life that truly matter are human, you know." These words highlight her belief in the importance of meaningful relationships over material success.
The Start of Something Special
Kathie Lee joined Regis on Live! (originally named The Morning Show) back in 1985, stepping into the role previously held by Ann Abernathy. From the very first episode, the chemistry between the two was undeniable. Fans quickly fell in love with the banter that kicked off each show, as Kathie Lee and Regis exchanged witty remarks about everything from their personal lives to the world of politics. This dynamic duo became a staple of morning television, captivating audiences with their natural rapport.
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Even after making the difficult decision to leave Live! in 2011 to join Hoda Kotb, Kathie Lee maintained a close friendship with Regis until his passing. While leaving the show wasn’t easy, she felt it was the right move, guided by her faith and inner convictions. "I fill my mind and my spirit with scripture so I don’t have to look it up. I don’t have to google it, it’s in me, it’s in my DNA," she explained. "And so, each time I have left, either Regis or Hoda, it’s been because it was deeply prayed for and God just confirms as you go along." Her words reveal the depth of her spirituality and how it has influenced her career decisions.
A Friendship That Lasted Beyond the Screen
Kathie Lee has never shied away from expressing her admiration for Regis. In 2019, she exclusively told Closer, “He’s such a sweetheart. I love him to pieces.” This sentiment was echoed by a source who spoke to Closer at the time, describing their bond as akin to that of "army buddies." The source elaborated, "They went through a unique time together, pioneering the early-morning TV format. They genuinely like and love each other." It’s clear that their professional partnership transcended into a deep personal friendship.
Regis wasn’t just a close friend to Kathie Lee; he became a cherished member of her family. After his passing in 2020, her daughter Cassidy Gifford paid tribute to the man who had been like a second father to her. Cassidy shared a heartfelt message alongside a photo of Regis and her late father, Frank Gifford, who died in 2015. "The laughter I know you two are sharing together again in heaven is palpable … love you forever, Reeg," Cassidy, 30, wrote on July 25, 2020.
