The late Regis Philbin, who died on Friday at the age of 88, was a daytime fixture for decades as host of Live With Regis and Kathie Lee. After Kathie Lee Gifford exited the morning program, Philbin hosted the program for years with Kelly Ripa (ex-Hayley, All My Children), who continues as host of the program today, now called Live With Kelly and Ryan (with Ryan Seacrest in the co-host seat). One of his favorite guests was her former co-star, Susan Lucci.
Kelly Ripa and Susan Lucci Pay Tribute
Now Ripa and Lucci (ex-Erica), who often performed in shows with Philbin, are posting memories of working with the show business legend.
“We are beyond saddened to learn about the loss of Regis Philbin,” Ripa shared in a post with a photo of Philbin, herself, Seacrest, and Mickey Mouse. “[Regis] was the ultimate class act, bringing his laughter and joy into our homes everyday on Live for more than 23 years.
“We were beyond lucky to have him as a mentor in our careers and aspire everyday to fill his shoes on the show,” Ripa added. “We send our deepest love and condolences to his family and hope they can find some comfort in knowing he left the world a better place.” Ripa signed her post “Kelly and Ryan.”
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“Oh, Regis,” Lucci’s heartfelt response began. “I am so shocked and so incredibly sad to learn of your passing. Your warmth and charm and devilish sense of humor made the world fall in love with you—and all of us who had the privilege and joy to work with you adored you!
“Those five years we traveled the country appearing together on stage are full of some of my favorite memories,” she adds. “[My husband] Helmut and I send our love and heartfelt sympathy to beautiful Joy and your entire family. You were one of a kind, Rege—🎼There Will Never Ever Be Another You🎼 RIP, Regis—and thank you💙.”
It was Philbin who coined the phrase “La Lucci!” when referring to the Daytime Emmy-winning actress. In a follow-up post, Lucci shared a photo of Philbin and herself that was sent to her by a pal. “A friend just sent me this photo, taken on the road, performing with Regis. ❤️💙❤️🙏🙏🙏.”
Like Ripa and Lucci, Philbin played a character on an ABC Daytime serial. He was Malachy Malone on Ryan’s Hope from 1987-88. Soap Hub sends sincere condolences to Philbin’s family at this difficult time.
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