Piers Morgan has paid tribute to his America’s Got Talent co-star Regis Philbin, who died on Friday aged 88.
The Good Morning Britain presenter starred alongside the late host on the first season of the NBC show back in 2006.
After hearing the news of Regis’ death, which was confirmed by his family in a statement, Piers took to Instagram and shared a photo of himself alongside fellow judges David Hasselhoff and Brandy Norwood.
Regis was stood behind them for the picture with his hand placed on Piers’ shoulder.
‘Incredibly sad to hear about the death of the great Regis Philbin,’ he penned in the caption.
‘Got to know him when he hosted Season 1 of @agt and he was one of the smartest, funniest, most entertaining & talented TV presenters to ever grace the small screen. Was so kind & generous to me. RIP.’
In a message shared with People magazine, Regis’ family explained he died of natural causes on 24 July, just weeks before his 89th birthday.
‘We are deeply saddened to share that our beloved Regis Philbin passed away last night of natural causes, one month shy of his 89th birthday,’ it read.
‘His family and friends are forever grateful for the time we got to spend with him – for his warmth, his legendary sense of humour, and his singular ability to make every day into something worth talking about.
‘We thank his fans and admirers for their incredible support over his 60-year career and ask for privacy as we mourn his loss.’
Tributes have been flooding in for Regis following the news of his death, with his co-hosts Kelly Ripa and Kathie Lee Gifford leading the way.
‘We are beyond saddened to learn about the loss of Regis Philbin. He was the ultimate class act, bringing his laughter and joy into our homes every day on Live for more than 23 years,’ Kelly said in a statement with Ryan Seacrest.
‘We were beyond lucky to have him as a mentor in our careers and aspire everyday to fill his shoes on the show. We send our deepest love and condolences to his family and hope they can find some comfort in knowing he left the world a better place.’
Kathie Lee wrote simply: ‘Regis. There will never be another.’
Regis was also known for presenting the American version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? and the first season of America’s Got Talent.
He presented Live! first with Kathie Lee Gifford, before Kelly Ripa took over. Regis and Kelly presented together until 2011, Live! now airs with Kelly and Ryan Seacrest as main presenters.
Regis is survived by his widow Joy Senese, and his four children.
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