BREAKING: Television icon Phil Donahue dies at 88.

Donahue died at his home surrounded by his family, including his wife of 44 years, Marlo Thomas, his sister, his children, grandchildren and his beloved golden retriever, Charlie, his family said in a statement to TODAY.

In a statement obtained by Today, Donahue's family said the groundbreaking TV talk show journalist died in his home surrounded by his family including his wife of 44 years — actress Marlo Thomas — as well as "his sister, his children, grandchildren and his beloved golden retriever, Charlie."

I loved his show back in the day... Rest In Peace, Phil Donahue..♥️🍀🙏

Phil Donahue was an American icon 🙇🏽‍♀️

A true pioneer for daytime. Countless memories watching with my mother growing up.

@brianstelter Phil Donahue was fired by @MSNBC for opposing the Iraq war. A leaked internal memo read he would be a “difficult public face for NBC in a time of war..” (NBC’s parent company at the time was weapons maker @GeneralElectric)

Oh no 🥹 Peace and comfort to his wife Marlo Thomas & his sons.

Like many ppl here, I grew up watching Phil…his shows made an impact on my politics, my world view through his insightful guests and interviews. I feel fortunate to have had this quality of tv…especially considering the talk shows that followed. RIP🙏

Phil Donahue was an early and powerful influence for my understanding of community and critical thinking. His questioning developed my own sense of wonder and curiosity about the larger world. PD was a great teacher. 🙏for his family as they grieve his loss🕊️