Marlo Thomas paid tribute to her late husband, Phil Donahue, who passed away at the age of 88 on August 18, 2024, following a long illness. In an emotional Instagram post, she expressed her sorrow and gratitude for the support from fans, stating she would take a break from social media to focus on her well-being and those close to Donahue. The couple shared a profound love story that began in 1977 when Thomas appeared on Donahue's talk show, culminating in their marriage in 1980. Donahue was a pioneering figure in television, known for his groundbreaking talk show that aired for 29 years, where he interviewed influential figures like Nelson Mandela. He was recognized with numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2024. Thomas reflected on their enduring relationship, emphasizing that their love flourished due to their maturity and understanding of one another.