After 28 years on the air, veteran television personality Regis Philbin delivered his final goodbye on Live! With Regis & Kelly.
The consummate entertainer has been co-hosting the program since 1985. He was the recipient of an emotional tribute by Kelly Ripa, who has spent the last eleven years as his sidekick.
It was a busy week for Philbin, who appeared in a special ABC 20/20 segment with Katie Couric. He also got some laughs last night on Late Night With Letterman thanks to a decidedly rough ride on a shiny red Vespa skooter.
During his final ‘Live!‘ show today, a special VIP section was filled with Kathie Lee Gifford, Donald Trump, Tony Danza, Anne Hathaway, Justin Timberlake, Robin Roberts, Diane Sawyer, Alan Alda, Jane Krakowski, Kevin Connolly and Emma Stone.
Joy Philbin and their daughters Joanna and J.J. were joined by Kelly’s husband Mark Consuelos and their children.
Regis held to his vow that he would not shed a tear as he bid the audience a final goodbye, “Why has the show stayed on so long? It’s answered to me every time people tell me why they watch it. They watch it, they say, because it makes them feel better. And it can’t get better than that.”
“I’ll never be able to answer all the cards and letters and messages, especially in the last few weeks. Thank you for all the great years together. God bless you all, and I hope I see you again real soon.”
Check out his video goodbye message below:
Photo: ABC