Let me tell you, folks, the past few months have been absolutely nonstop for Kathie Lee Gifford. Between recording sessions, business meetings, and charity events, she's been running on high octane. But guess what? She's more than ready to slow down and enjoy some peaceful moments with her close pals, including her former cohost, Regis Philbin. "He’s such a sweetheart. I adore him with all my heart," Kathie Lee exclusively shares with Closer Weekly in their latest issue, currently available on newsstands. "Regis has returned from California, so this summer, we’re going to spend a ton of quality time together."
Their Unbreakable Bond
Now, if you remember, Kathie Lee and Regis had that magical chemistry that viewers couldn't help but adore when they cohosted Live With Regis and Kathie Lee from 1988 to 2000. That effortless rapport they shared in front of the cameras has continued to be a cherished part of their lives. "They’re like army buddies," an insider tells us, describing their relationship as loving and supportive. "They went through a unique era together, pioneering the early-morning TV format. They genuinely care for and love each other."
When It All Began
Back in 1985, Regis Philbin, a broadcasting legend at the time, knew he had found something special when he met Kathie Lee Johnson. "My goodness, she is so full of life," he enthusiastically expressed when the vibrant redhead replaced Ann Abernathy as his cohost on The Morning Show. Kathie Lee, now 65, reflects on that moment fondly, saying, "Regis and I clicked instantly. I knew right then it was the start of something monumental."
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From Local to National
After achieving impressive ratings, the duo took their show national with Live With Regis and Kathie Lee. They started each broadcast with 15 minutes of honest, personal conversation, a format that might feel common today but was groundbreaking at the time. It was during this period that Kathie Lee bravely discussed her husband Frank Gifford's 1997 infidelity on air, showing the world just how real their show was.
A Friendship That Blossomed
While they worked seamlessly together on camera, Kathie Lee and Regis didn't spend much time together socially at first. However, that changed after Kathie Lee left Live in 2000. "The two couples started having dinners together in Connecticut, and these gatherings became a regular part of their relationship," the insider reveals. Regis and Frank bonded over their love for football, while Kathie Lee and Joy Philbin formed a close friendship of their own.
Support Through Tough Times
When Kathie Lee joined Today in 2008, Regis, who left Live in 2011, began making frequent appearances on the show. He and Joy were also there for Kathie Lee during her darkest days after Frank passed away in 2015. "My closest friends knew I was going through an incredibly difficult time. It felt like I was in a desert," Kathie Lee admits.
A Friendship That Grows Stronger
Over the past 34 years, Kathie Lee and Regis' friendship has only grown stronger. "They are true survivors in this challenging industry. They both love to laugh, they understand the humor in situations, and they bring joy to each other's lives," the insider explains. "They genuinely want the best for one another."
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