Kathie Lee Gifford is an iconic American television personality, singer, actress, and author, best known for co-hosting the popular morning talk show Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee for 15 years. With a career spanning several decades, Kathie Lee has made significant contributions to television, music, and literature, earning her a place as a beloved figure in American entertainment. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Kathie Lee Gifford’s life, family, career, and accomplishments.
Early Life and Background
Full Name: Kathie Lee Epstein Gifford
Born: August 16, 1953
Birthplace: Paris, France
Nationality: American
Profession: Television Host, Actress, Singer, Author
Kathie Lee Gifford was born on August 16, 1953, in Paris, France, to American parents. Her father, Aaron Epstein, was a former naval officer and a musician, while her mother, Joan Epstein, was a homemaker. Kathie Lee spent part of her childhood in France due to her father’s military career but moved to the United States at an early age. She grew up in Bowie, Maryland, and attended Bowie High School before going on to study at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she graduated with a degree in music.
Family Life
Kathie Lee’s family has played a significant role in shaping her life and career. She married former football player and television personality Frank Gifford in 1986. The couple had two children together:
Cody Gifford: Born in 1990, Cody is Kathie Lee’s son and followed in his family’s entertainment footsteps. He has worked as a producer and has appeared in various television projects.
Cassidy Gifford: Born in 1993, Cassidy is Kathie Lee’s daughter and pursued a career in acting. She has appeared in several films and television shows.
Kathie Lee’s marriage to Frank Gifford was a central part of her personal life until his passing in 2015. The couple was known for their strong and loving relationship, which was often reflected in Kathie Lee’s public appearances. Kathie Lee has spoken candidly about the challenges she faced after Frank’s death and how her faith and family have been a source of strength.
Career Highlights
Television Career
Kathie Lee Gifford’s television career began in the late 1970s when she appeared as a singer and actress on various shows. She gained national recognition as a co-host on Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee, a position she held from 1985 to 2000. The show was a massive hit, with Kathie Lee’s bubbly personality and sense of humor resonating with viewers. Her on-screen chemistry with co-host Regis Philbin made the show one of the most popular daytime talk shows during its run.
After leaving Live! in 2000, Kathie Lee went on to host her own talk show, Kathie Lee & Hoda, alongside Hoda Kotb. This show aired for 11 years on NBC and became known for its lighthearted, fun, and sometimes candid discussions of current events, celebrity gossip, and personal stories. Kathie Lee’s easygoing style and charm made her a beloved figure on morning television.
Music Career
In addition to her television career, Kathie Lee Gifford is also a talented singer and songwriter. She released several albums, including her debut album Kathie Lee (1992), and continued to release music throughout her career. Her music often reflects her personal experiences and beliefs, with songs that focus on themes of love, faith, and family. Kathie Lee’s music career may not have been as high-profile as her television career, but she is still recognized for her contributions to the music industry.
Acting Career
Kathie Lee also pursued acting in television and film. Early in her career, she appeared on shows like Name That Tune and The Great American Laugh-Off. She also had roles in sitcoms such as The First Wives Club and Today. Though her acting career didn’t reach the same level of fame as her hosting career, she demonstrated her versatility and talent in both comedic and dramatic roles.
Author
Kathie Lee Gifford has authored several books, including I Can’t Believe I Said That (1996), Just When I Thought I’d Dropped My Last Egg (2008), and The Rock, the Road, and the Rabbi (2018). Many of her books are memoirs, filled with humor and life lessons, while others focus on her faith, personal experiences, and family life. Her writing has resonated with readers who appreciate her candid storytelling and uplifting messages.
Broadway and Theater
Kathie Lee Gifford’s talents have extended beyond television and music into the world of theater. In 2019, she made her Broadway debut as a writer and composer for the musical Scandalous: The Life and Trials of Aimee Semple McPherson. The show was inspired by the life of the controversial evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson and received mixed reviews but was a testament to Kathie Lee’s creative range.
Trivia and Fun Facts
Philanthropy: Kathie Lee is known for her charitable work and her efforts to give back to the community. She supports several causes, including child advocacy and health-related initiatives. She has also been involved with organizations like the Childhelp Foundation and God’s Love We Deliver.
Her Faith: Kathie Lee is outspoken about her Christian faith, and it has been a central part of her personal and professional life. Her books and interviews often discuss how her faith has helped her navigate the ups and downs of life.
TV Legacy: Kathie Lee was honored with multiple Daytime Emmy Awards throughout her career. She has been recognized for her contribution to daytime television and remains a beloved figure in the industry.
Nickname: Kathie Lee is often affectionately referred to as “Kathie Lee” or simply “KLG” by fans, especially those who followed her during her Live! and Kathie Lee & Hoda years.
Kathie Lee Gifford has undoubtedly made a lasting mark on American television, music, and literature. Known for her warmth, humor, and dedication to her faith, she has built a diverse career that spans several decades. From her time as a beloved co-host on Live! to her role in Kathie Lee & Hoda, Kathie Lee has become a cherished public figure. Beyond her work on television, she continues to inspire audiences with her books, music, and philanthropy. Kathie Lee’s positive energy and commitment to living a life of joy, faith, and service have made her a true American icon.