Marlo Thomas missed the Today show’s St. Jude segment for the first time in 21 years after the passing of her husband, Phil Donahue
Phil Donahue passed away in August at the age of 88 after a prolonged illness, his family shared in a statement. Three months later, Marlo Thomas, still mourning the loss of her cherished husband, did not appear on the Today show on November 25.
Thomas, 87, serves as the national outreach director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, founded by her father, Danny Thomas, in 1962.
This marked the first time in 21 years that she missed launching the hospital’s annual Thanks & Giving campaign, a tradition she began with her siblings.
Tony Thomas appeared on the Today show in place of his sister, Marlo Thomas, after Savannah Guthrie explained her absence, saying, «Marlo is taking some time off after the loss of her beloved husband, Phil Donahue.»
Donahue passed away in August at 88, surrounded by family and their dog, Charlie. Hoda Kotb asked Tony about Marlo, and he shared that she is «doing as best to be expected,» noting their 44-year marriage was a true love story.
«They were very close, and it will take time for her to heal,» he added. Tony confirmed Marlo plans to return for next year’s campaign benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The Today show continued its annual spotlight on St. Jude patients and families, with Savannah Guthrie asking Tony Thomas to «give Marlo our love» and adding, «If Marlo’s watching, we love you.»
Tony reflected on the lasting impact of his father’s mission since St. Jude opened over 60 years ago, noting, «He would be amazed but shocked. There was a time when they were writing checks to cover payroll for doctors and scientists.»
