Oprah Winfrey owes her career to the late Phil Donahue

She told People: "There wouldn't have been an 'Oprah Show' without Phil Donahue being the first to prove that daytime talk and women watching should be taken seriously.

"He was a pioneer. I'm glad I got to thank him for it. Rest in peace Phil."

Oprah shared the same statement on her Instagram, along with a black-and-white photo of her and Phil hugging.

Phil's death was first reported by the 'Today' show when his family announced he died in his home on Sunday.

They said his final moment were spent surrounded by his wife of 44 years, actress Marlo Thomas, 86, as well as his sister, children, grandchildren and his "beloved golden retriever, Charlie".

His cause of death has not yet been revealed, but the family's statement added his passing came "following a long illness".

They also said he died "peacefully".

Phil broke barriers by broaching controversial topic on his talk shows, which started in the 1950s.

'The Phil Donahue Show' tackled issues including child abuse in the Catholic Church, as well as civil rights, racism and feminism.

Phil won 20 Emmy awards - 10 for outstanding host and 10 for his talk show itself - which also paved the way for daytime hosts such as Sally Jesse Raphael, Ricki Lake and Montel Williams.

Montel, 68, also paid tribute to Phil after news of his death broke, saying he was a "true pioneer".

He added: "Yesterday, we lost a true pioneer. Phil Donahue, the godfather of talk shows, forever changed the landscape of television. My thoughts and prayers are with Marlo and his family. Rest in peace, Phil."