Phil Donahue's Headshot

Phil Donahue

Talk Show Host and Journalist - Panelist Blurb

As host of Donahue, the long-running television talk show, Phil Donahue has presided over more than 6,000 one-hour daily shows, many on location broadcasts and several historic U.S. – Soviet "space bridge" telecasts (19870-1987). For their historic role and unique chronicle of American life, Donahue and the show have been honored with 19 National Emmy Awards (with eight "Outstanding Host" awards); the George Foster Peabody Broadcasting Journalism Award for sensitive, yet probing interviews on issues relevant to today's society (1981); and numerous other honors from educational, religious and mental health organizations.

Donahue has used the television talk show, a format which he pioneered in 1967, to interview world leaders, "ordinary" people and celebrities; to focus national debates on political and social issues; and to provide a democratic forum for presidential candidates.

In addition to the numerous awards he has already received, and because he continues to refine the format he created nearly a quarter century ago, Donahue will be inducted into the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences' Hall of Fame on November 20, 1993.

Donahue is also co-host of POZNER-DONAHUE, with international journalist Vladimir Pozner. The CNBC live call-in television program focuses on news events, national and global issues and newsmakers.

NOTE: Bio is as it appeared in the Forum playbill for "Is it News or Entertainment?" on October 15, 1993.