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Regis Philbin has been a staple of morning television for 28 years. But on Tuesday morning, the Live with Regis and Kelly co-host announced that this year will be his last one hosting the show.
The 79-year-old has hosted Live alongside four different regular co-hosts since 1983, including Cyndy Garvey, Ann Abernathy, Kathie Lee Gifford and, from 2001 onward, Kelly Ripa.
"I don’t want to alarm anybody," he started. "But, this will be my last year on the show."
The New York native added, "It’s been an enormous thrill to come back here to New York, and have that New York show for five years, and then go on to a syndicated situation. And all the fun we’ve had, and all the great co-hosts."
He added jokingly, "Everything must come to an end for certain people on camera, especially certain old people."
Philbin's bubbly co-host teared up at the announcement. "I think I can only speak for America, and all of us here, when I say it has been a pleasure and a privilege and a dream come true (working with you)," Ripa said. "And I wish I could do something to change your mind."
Philbin has taken time off from the show for health reasons in recent years. In 2007, he underwent triple bypass surgery, folllowed by hip replacement surgery in 2009.
Watch Philbin’s announcement below, courtesy of PopEater.
Who do you think should replace Regis Philbin on Live? Chime in below!
