Regis Philbin

Guide Note

Regis Philbin is an American television personality, game show and talk show host, and author.

Fast Facts

1. Birth name: Regis Francis Xavier Philbin
2. Born: August 25, 1931
3. Birthplace: New York City, New York
4. Spouse: Kay Faylan (1955 - 1968), Joy Senese (1970 -present)
5. Children: Amy, Daniel, Joanna, Jennifer
6. Alma Mater: University of Notre Dame
7. Debut TV show: The Tonight Show (1962)

Regis Philbin began his broadcasting career in San Diego as host of The Regis Philbin Show in 1964. In 1968, Philbin appeared as Joey Bishop's sidekick on The Joey Bishop Show. From 1975 to 1983, Philbin co-hosted A.M. Los Angeles, a local morning talk show on KABC-TV before he joined Cindy Garvey in New York City on The Morning Show. Kathie Lee Gifford replaced Garvey in 1985. The show was nationally syndicated in 1988 and renamed Live! With Regis & Kathie Lee. Since 1975, Philbin has had a periodic second career as a game show host.

• 1968 - 1969: The Joey Bishop Show
• 1989 - present: Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee
• 1999 - 2002: Who Wants To Be a Millionaire
• 2006 - 2008: America's Got Talent

"I had a blocked artery. The great thing about it was that all the people sitting at home, watching on the couch, feeling the same thing...got up and called the doctor. I still get letters thanking me for saving people's lives."—Regis Philbin¹

“I'm going to call upon the nation to usher in a period of personal responsibility. I want each and every American to know for certain that I'm responsible for the decisions I make and each of you are as well.”—Regis Philbin²

“Regis can do anything these young punks can do. I fit right in there with my Fox people. They want Regis to dance, Regis will dance. They want Regis to lift weights with them, Regis will lift weights with them. Whatever they want!”—Regis Philbin²