Remembering The Eloquent, Classy Phil Donahue

It is the class, eloquence, humor and most of all, the friendliness in our meetings, that I cherish most about pioneer TV presence (not thrilled with what he preceded and in a sense “begat”), Phil Donahue, a true great, who died days back at age 88.

I was privileged to hear a special talk Mr. Donahue gave, about seven years back, in which he talked of his historic early days in Dayton, Ohio, the fact Vivian Maier, now posthumously, a “flocked to her exhibition” photographer worked briefly as Phil’s housekeeper, his trip to China and most candidly and memorably, his family, especially his beautiful and beloved wife, actress/actor, Marlo Thomas.

Above, there I am with Phil Donahue and Marlo Thomas some years back.

Before that meeting, I now realize was in 2017, I had asked Phil about “his” Cubs finally winning it all, having denied Cleveland in 7 games with the last going into extra innings. He remarked it being a bit “mixed” as he was from Cleveland, whose then Indians and now Guardians, have gone over 75 years sans title.

Just then Phil’s phone rang with ever loving (their “meeting” on one of Phil’s early shows is so touching, especially since it eventually proved substance in addition to style) Marlo checking on him.

I also was present at a conference circa 2010 in which Donahue, spoke eloquently and passionately about the need for people to do better and be more caring and understanding.

His shows certainly broke ground and did bring into conversation topics that needed to be addressed.

Some “extras” today as additional and up front ways of remembering this fine, talented and in most ways blessed man.