Regis Philbin: The Legend's Life Beyond The Spotlight

Before Ryan Seacrest became the face of modern television, there was Regis Philbin — the guy who felt like your best friend every morning. At 86, Regis shot to fame with his iconic morning show Live! and made millions dream big with Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? But after stepping away from the spotlight, he's embracing a slower pace of life. Let’s catch up with the man who brought joy to millions!

Life After the Spotlight

Regis hasn't completely hung up his mic. These days, you can catch him filling in as a guest co-host on shows like Today and The Rachael Ray Show, keeping his wit sharp and his charm intact. He’s also made memorable appearances on scripted series like New Girl, proving he still has that star power. “There are definitely days when I miss the hustle of work, but it’s been a refreshing change to slow down and focus on what truly matters—family,” Regis told AOL. “Whether it’s playing tennis with friends or staying on top of the stock market, I’m finding joy in the little things.”

Regis and his wife Joy in 2017.

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Prioritizing Health

For a man who's been through the ringer—triple bypass surgery, an angioplasty, and a hip replacement—Regis is nothing short of a miracle. He’s using his platform to advocate for heart health awareness, sharing his experiences to inspire others. “These procedures were a wake-up call. They made me realize just how serious heart health is,” Regis explained. “I’ve always been open with the public, so it felt natural to share my journey and encourage others to prioritize their own health.”

“Heart disease isn’t something to take lightly,” Regis emphasized while joining the Take Cholesterol to Heart campaign. “By sharing my story, I hope others feel empowered to speak up and work with their doctors to find the best treatment options. This campaign is something I’m truly proud of and hope it becomes part of my legacy.”

A Lifelong Friendship with Kathie Lee

Regis and Kathie Lee Gifford’s chemistry was undeniable, drawing millions of viewers to Live with Regis and Kathie Lee starting in 1988. Their partnership was a ratings goldmine, and even after Kathie Lee left the show in 2000, their friendship endured. The duo was last seen dining together in January, proving that some bonds last a lifetime.

Kathie Lee and Regis on Jan. 24 in West Hollywood.

Not So Rosy Days with Kelly Ripa

While Regis and Kathie Lee’s partnership was smooth sailing, his time with Kelly Ripa wasn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Despite their professional relationship being drama-free, both have spoken about their dynamic since Regis’ departure in 2011. Their accounts, however, paint slightly different pictures.

“Regis had this rule: absolutely no talking off-camera,” Kelly revealed last December. “He was almost superstitious about it. You save it all for the show. I’d say, ‘Good morning,’ and he’d reply, ‘Save it for the air!’”

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The co-hosts in 2011.

Regis, on the other hand, shared that their relationship soured when he decided to leave the show. “Kelly was offended when I stepped down. She thought I was leaving because of her,” Regis confessed to Larry King. “But the truth is, I was getting older, and it just wasn’t the right fit anymore.”

After Michael Strahan’s departure, Ryan Seacrest stepped into the spotlight, and Regis even reached out to him before his debut. “He told me, ‘Ryan, the hardest part was always having something to talk about the night before, so just make sure you’re doing something,’” Ryan shared. It’s clear that Regis remains the warm, supportive guy we’ve always known and loved.