Reeeeeeeeeeeeeg!!!!

Longtime talk show host Regis Philbin announced he will retire from television this summer - after more than 40 years on-air. And now I has a sadd.

Yes, Live with Regis & Kelly is cheesy, but I used to love watching the "host chat" segment before heading to work (although I haven't done so in a while).

Many years ago I had the opportunity to sit in the "Live" studio audience and see Regis in-person. And during that show, I ended up winning the "Pick a number between one and whatever" studio audience prize - which made me a fan for life.

Dear Reeg - you will be missed.

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Live With Regis & Kathy Lee & Kelly

One of the joys of not having to be at work until 10:00 am is being able to catch the "Host Chat" segment on "Live with Regis & Kelly". They sit down and talk to each other about what's going on in their lives for the first 15-20 minutes of the show, and it's often hilarious. There is something comforting about checking in with them every morning before leaving to catch the subway.

Once upon a time I was NOT a fan of the show. Shortly after moving to NYC in the early 90's, I got a visit from Gerry, one of my very best friends from college. She was a big fan of the show (then "Live with Regis & Kathy Lee") and I was able to get us in.

One of the things they do on the show every morning is give away a prize to a viewer who has called in over the phone. After he/she wins or loses, the caller picks a number - and the studio audience member who is sitting in the seat with that number also wins a prize. I sat down in lucky seat number 13 and the show began.

Sure enough, the caller picked number 13 and I won a some lovely Baccarat crystal - which I promptly gave away as gifts. I've been a fan of the show ever since.

Today's show marked "Live's" 20th Anniversay and featured Kathy Lee Gifford appearing for the first time since she left seven years ago.

Happy Anniversary!