Regis Philbin

Regis Philbin once famously declared that ABC owed him its existence, and at the time that was true. Between Live With and Who Wants To Be a Millionaire? Regis survived completely unscathed the departure of longtime co-host Kathy Lee Gifford, and was to find a bright, well-received replacement in Kelly Ripa. In the interim without a fixed co-host, Regis welcomed a series of guest co-hosts in a creative move that kept the show afloat.

At the same time, Regis Philbin took on the surprising role of game show host, reviving a nearly forgotten television genre and spawning the development of similar shows both at ABC and other networks. Battered by a lack of successful sitcoms and losing ground to premium cable networks, Regis Philbin’s Who Wants To Be a Millionaire? was the number one show in television, and Live With was also scoring big ratings for the network.

Regis Philbin was born August 25, 1931 and grew up in the Bronx. He earned a degree in sociology from the University of Notre Dame, completing his studies in 1953. Following graduation, he followed a roundabout route to broadcasting, getting the chance to get behind the microphone after working various jobs in radio and television production.

Regis Philbin’s New York accent and big, accessible personality—formed partially from Navy service—were great advantages when he began broadcasting in radio. While he gained valuable exposure from his first radio gig, production values were low. Under pressure to fill time every day without the benefit of writers, Regis Philbin removed the formality from the typical talk show format, and opened up the lines to callers who wanted to comment on the anecdotes and opinions Philbin related on everyday life.

His chat segment would remain part of his shows’ format throughout his career. The segments were successful because Regis’s friendly broadcasting personality is critical without being personal, and is often self-deprecating. He makes light of his own foibles in navigating modern life and technology, which makes his audience more readily accept the fun he pokes at others.

Regis has released memoirs and autobiographies, vocal musical performances, and continues to host Live along with other shows and guest appearances. He has four children from two marriages.