Regis Philbin, the legendary television and game show host, as well as a longtime WWE contributor, has passed away at 88 years old.
Philbin, the host of “Live with Regis and Kathy Lee,” later Kelly Ripa, frequently had WWE personalities on his show in the late-1980s and 1990s. He also was a celebrity backstage interviewer at WrestleMania VII and was on commentary for the main event for the WWF Championship with Sgt. Slaughter battling Hulk Hogan.
With a career spanning well over 50 years in show business, Philbin hosted such popular game shows as “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,” “Million Dollar Password,” and hosted the first season of “America’s Got Talent.” He also holds the Guinness World Record for most hours on U.S. television.
On behalf of the staff of Wrestleview, we send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Regis Philbin.
Below is WWE’s statement on his passing:
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, Diesel 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.