Legendary television host John McLaughlin died early Tuesday, August 16, according to the official Facebook page of his weekly TV show. He was 89 years old.
The TV personality – who hosted a popular syndicated political commentary series— passed away just two days after he missed a taping for his show for the first time in 34 years. The McLaughlin Group premiered in 1982.
“As a former Jesuit priest, teacher, pundit and news host, John touched many lives,” the statement on Facebook from his colleagues read. “For 34 years, The McLaughlin Group informed millions of Americans. Now he has said bye bye for the last time, to rejoin his beloved dog, Oliver, in heaven. He will always be remembered.”
McLaughlin, who once served as a Catholic priest before becoming a pundit in the 1970s after writing speeches for President Richard Nixon, penned a note to his viewers, which was shared on Sunday’s episode, explaining his unexpected absence.
“Dear friends of The McLaughlin Group, Dr. McLaughlin here. As the panel’s recent absences attest, I am under the weather,” he wrote. “The final issue of this episode has my voice, but please forgive me for its weaker than usual quality. Yet my spirit is strong and my dedication to this show remains absolute!”
Aside from hosting The McLaughlin Group, the TV host made various sitcom appearances, including memorable cameos on Cheers and Murphy Brown. He also served as a host on CNBC in the early 1990s.
McLaughlin had no children. His second wife, Cristina Clara Vidal, died in 2010. Prior to Vidal, he was wed to Ann Dore, who he divorced in 1992.
Memorial services for the TV vet have yet to be announced.
