Marlo Thomas has recently provided an update following the passing of her husband, Phil Donahue, in August 2024. The legendary talk show host passed away at the age of 88 after a battle with health issues. Thomas, who is 88 years old and serves as the national outreach director at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, took time away from her public appearances to mourn.
Return to Television
This week, Thomas made her first appearance on TODAY since losing Donahue. She had notably skipped her usual holiday segment in 2024 as she focused on her grief. During her appearance on November 25, she shared a brief update about her well-being, stating, “I’m doing well.”
Support from Fellow Hosts
In her update, Thomas referenced TODAY’s Sheinelle Jones, who also experienced significant loss when her husband, Uche Ojeh, passed away from brain cancer at the age of 45 in May 2024. Jones expressed gratitude toward Thomas, calling her “my Earth angel” during this difficult time.
Reflecting on Loss
Thomas paid tribute to Donahue after his death. In a heartfelt Instagram message, she expressed her love and gratitude for the time they spent together, emphasizing the importance of family. “Until I return, I wish you good health and happy days in the company of family and friends,” she wrote, reflecting on cherishing loved ones.
Legacy of Love
Marlo Thomas and Phil Donahue met in 1972 when she appeared on his talk show. They married in 1980 and collaborated on a book titled “What Makes a Marriage Last,” released in 2020. In interviews, Thomas often shared her insights on sustaining their marriage, highlighting the “three L’s”: love, listening, and lust.
- Love: A cornerstone of their relationship.
- Listening: Essential for understanding each other’s needs.
- Lust: Important for keeping the romance alive.
Thomas reflected on the joy and depth of their partnership, acknowledging the enduring impact of her late husband on her life and career.
