Phil Donahue's VERY HAPPY Final Days: His Actress Wife Marlo Swore by Sex to Keep Them Young and Fit Into Their 80s
Aug. 20 2024, Published 2:30 p.m. ET
Phil Donahue was happy right until the end — thanks to his wife’s love of sex in their twilight years.
RadarOnline.com can reveal the television talker's actress partner, Marlo Thomas, was so dedicated to maintaining a high libido she kept "fit" and "attractive" in order to "enjoy an active sex life", according to a friend.
The former beauty icon worked hard to maintain her appearance, looking as "slim" as "her days as a working actress" in a bid to liven up their lives — between the sheets!
Before Donahue's death at the age of 88, his beloved wife maintained a rigorous workout schedule, indulged in facials and pampered herself with salon appointments.
The source added: "Phil and Marlo got married later in life and put all the inhibitions of their earlier days behind them when they became man and wife."
The couple vowed to enjoy "each other completely" — and as a result they dedicated time to nurture "a healthy sex life."
Thomas told AARP Magazine in 2011: "From the very first day, I decided that I was not going to try to be a 'mother' to Phil's children in the traditional sense — they already had a mom — but, instead, to be their friend.
"I'm proud to say that the friendships I established with them are as strong today as they were 30 years ago — even stronger."
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As RadarOnline.com reported, Donahue passed away at his home on the Upper East Side in Manhattan on Sunday following a long illness.
In a statement, his family said: "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."
Thomas later paid tribute to her husband, writing in an emotional post on Instagram: "Hello, friend. I'm sure by now you've heard the very sad news that I lost my sweetheart last night, so I know you understand that I'll be stepping away from this page for a while to take care of myself and the many people who took care of Phil, and held him close to their hearts."
She continued: "But I didn't want to disappear without saying thank you for the beautiful messages of love and support that have been coming in all day, and for the wonderful and generous way that you've let Phil and me share our life adventure with you over the years.
"As a man who spent his career loving his audiences, Phil got such a kick out of our cozy little community here, and I know he would be very touched by the heartwarming thoughts and memories you've been sharing.
"Until I return, I wish you good health and happy days in the company of family and friends, and I hope that you will continue to hold close those you cherish most, just as I was blessed to do with my beloved Phillip. Love, Marlo."
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