Her former television presenter Kathie Lee Gifford wrote in a tweet, “REGIS. There will never be another.”
In a joint statement posted on Instagram, Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest, who currently run the ABC talk show that Philbin first hosted, remembered it as a “class act.”
“We are more than sad to know about the loss of Regis Philbin,” they wrote. “It was the best class act, bringing his laughter and joy to our homes every day on Live for over 23 years. We were most fortunate to have him as a mentor in our careers and aspire every day to fill his shoes at the Program”. “We send our deepest love and condolences to his family and hope that they can find some comfort in knowing that he left the world in a better place.”
Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, shared a heartfelt message about the former morning host.
“We are heartbroken to hear that a longtime colleague and friend #regisphilbin passed away at the age of 88. Regis honored us with warmth, humor and self-critical wit, always bringing happiness to all of us. Our hearts are with us. Joy and your family. Rest in peace, Regis, “he wrote.
Film critic Leonard Maltin wrote: “#RegisPhilbin was always generous to me from his days on local LAtelevision to his long reign on national morning television. A charming man indeed; he had a great career … Rest in peace.”
Producer and author Roma Downey wrote that he was “very sad #RegisPhilbin RIP ‘. His family and friends are always grateful for the time we spent with him, for his warmth, his legendary sense of humor and his unique ability to make everyone day in something worth talking about, ‘the Philbin family.’
Actress Bo Derek put it simply: “Another great one left. Rest in peace, dude. #Regisphilbin #friend #rip.”
Seinfeld star Jason Alexander wrote: “I really believed that #RegisPhilbin would be with us forever. He was a fun, funny and charming man. On the occasions when I had to be with him, he was always a bright light, infinitely interesting and interested in everyone. Sympathy for loved ones. #ripregisphilbin “
Comedian DL Hughley wrote: “#RegisPhilbin was always a class act. Condolences to his family for his loss.”
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo paid tribute and wrote: “New York lost a television legend today. Born and raised in the Bronx, Regis Philbin welcomed us for years with our morning and evening coffee after dinner. His humor and enthusiasm touched millions of Americans. My heart goes out to Joy and her loved ones. “
William Shatner wrote: “Saddened to learn of Regis Philbin’s passing. Condolences to his wife Joy.”
Jimmy Kimmel called Philbin “tremendous”.
“Regis was a great announcer, a good friend and a lot of fun. Leave behind a beautiful family and a television legacy that will probably not be compared. Regis, I hope our friend Rickles met you at the pearly doors with open arms and a lot of the insults you loved so much. “
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