On November 18th, 2011, Regis Philbin will leave live television, ending 25 years of hosting “LIVE! with Regis & Kelly.” Since his TV career began in 1962, he’s been on live TV for more than 17,000 hours, more than anyone else in America. To put this into perspective, we’ve paired milestones in Regis’s television career with events in the auto industry:
1.1962 was the year that started it all for Regis. When Jack Parr leaves “The Tonight Show” in March and his intended replacement, Johnny Carson, is under contract with ABC until October, Regis makes his national TV debut as one of the hosts filling in between Parr and Carson.
In the auto industry, GM hits its peak, controlling 51% of the U.S. market. The MGB begins production and will become the most popular British sports car in history.
2.In 1967, Regis gets his first regular spot on TV as the co-host of “The Joey Bishop Show.” It only lasts two years.
In the automotive world, GM releases the Pontiac Firebird and Chevy Camaro to take on the Mustang, while Mazda puts their first rotary-powered car into production.
3.In 1975, Regis starts co-hosting “A.M. Los Angeles.” It’s only broadcast locally, but lasts six years. Over that time, the show moves from the bottom of the ratings to most watched show in its time slot.
In that same year in the auto industry, BMW begins production of the 3-series. It quickly becomes the gold standard of sports sedans.
4.In 1983, Regis starts hosting “The Morning Show” with Kathie Lee Gifford. Although the show is only shown in the New York City area, it gets enough buzz to be picked up by Buena Vista Television.
The auto industry experiences a major evolution when Chrysler builds the first minivan. Almost overnight, they replace the station wagon as the family vehicle of choice.
5.In 1988, Regis and ”The Morning Show” get national distribution under a new title, “LIVE! with Regis and Kathie Lee.” Television history is made and Philbin’s popularity explodes as a national figure.
In the automotive world, the second generation Honda CRX debuts and becomes the hot rod of the 90s. Ford’s Festiva marks an important moment as well, as it is the first of many Kia-built car to reach the U.S. market.
6.In 1999, Regis begins to host the surprise hit game show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” His solid color ties become so popular; he gets his own clothing line.
With gas prices at an historical low point, the SUV craze peaks with the debut of Ford’s gigantic Excursion (as large as a small bus), while Volkswagen’s retro New Beetle is a huge hit.
7.In 2001, Kathy Lee Gifford leaves the “Live” show, Regis tries several co-hosts before settling on Kelly Ripa. The show is retitled “LIVE! With Regis and Kelly.” Gifford’s departure became a common punchline on late-night TV and a popular cultural reference.
Another shocking success story unfold when Chrysler’s retro-styled PT Cruiser enters the market and enjoys tremendous (albeit short term) popularity. In that same year, TRW introduces the rollover airbag system that will dramatically improve vehicle safety.
8.2004 is the year when Regis officially replaces Hugh Downs as the record holder for most hours on television.
In the automotive world, 2004 marks the debut of Toyota’s new Scion brand, an especially interesting development brought on by Toyota’s failure to appeal to younger buyers. Ford introduces a hybrid drivetrain for the Escape crossover, the first mass-market hybrid for Ford.
9.In 2009, Regis returns to host the 10th anniversary season of “Millionaire.” The Millionaire franchise was a massive hit for Regis, and his return pumps even more dollars out of this show.
In a shocking turn of evens, 2009 is also the year that General Motors and Chrysler file bankruptcy. The U.S. government, in an effort to preserve jobs, props up these automakers amid public criticism.
10.In 2011, an elderly but still vibrant Regis announces his intention to retire. Recognized as a pioneer of the modern TV era, Philbin is honored by numerous television personalities.
The US auto industry, fresh off a tremendous collapse in late 2008 and a massive bankruptcy in 2009, experiences a year or real growth. For the first time in decades, General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler are all profitable.
Author Jason Lancaster has been watching Regis and writing about the automobile industry for years. He currently writes for Olathe Parts and Accessories, the spot to get high-quality Toyota Parts for less.