HeelByNature.com is reader-supported. When you click on links or make purchases through our site, we or our affiliated partners may earn a commission. Additionally, our site features Sponsored Content, which helps us maintain and operate the website.
Legendary entertainment personality Regis Philbin has passed away at age 88.
In a statement to People Magazine, a family spokesperson said, “We are deeply saddened to share that our beloved Regis Philbin passed away last night of natural causes, one month shy of his 89th birthday.
Regis Philbin was best known on-air for his work with Live With Regis and Kathie Lee, and later Live With Regis and Kelly.
He was well liked in wrestling circles, and had a great relationship with WWE dating back to the early 80s. As the host of The Morning Show on New York’s WABC-TV he hosted a number of pro wrestler’s during WWF’s rise.
Eventually, The Morning Show was given national syndication and the name changed to Live with Regis and Kathie Lee.
Over the year’s he has interviewed a number of wrestling personalities including The Iron Sheik, Sgt. Slaughter, Classy Freddie Blassie, Rick Rude, Yokozuna, The Undertaker, Bret Hart, Randy Savage, Hulk Hogan, Steve Austin, Kurt Angle and Lex Luger.
Regis Philbin was also a guest host for WWF Wrestlemania 7, and appeared at RAW 1000.
WWE issued the following statement.
WWE is saddened to learn that legendary entertainment figure Regis Philbin has passed away at age 88.
WWE Superstars were frequent guests on Philbin’s morning show, “Live with Regis and Kathie Lee,” including Ultimate Warrior, “Ravishing” Rick Rude, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, “Macho Man” Randy Savage, John Cena and many more. Philbin even battled the massive Yokozuna in an epic tug-of-war on an episode.
The TV icon was also a memorable presence at WrestleMania VII where he conducted backstage interviews and provided commentary for the main event showdown between WWE Champion Sgt. Slaughter and Hulk Hogan. Regis also appeared on the historic Raw 1000, sending a classy congratulatory message to WWE.
WWE extends its condolences to Philbin’s family, friends and fans.