Phil Donahue

A pioneer of the television talk show, Phil Donahue was the host of "The Phil Donahue Show" (WLWD/syndicated, 1967-1996), which paved the way for the tide of afternoon chat programs that followed in its wake while also establishing a thoughtful, informative tone that many of them eschewed in favor of verbal fireworks. Donahue's screen persona - passionate, deeply liberal and sympathetic - made him a favorite among like-minded viewers, especially women, and a target for conservative figures. Donahue's fascination with stories from both high and low roads helped to fashion the modern talk show in all its permutations, from feel-good chats and news-driven roundtables to trashy exposes of sordid lives before the camera. In doing so, Phil Donahue was among the most important media figures of the late 20th century.