US TV host Regis Philbin has died at the age of 88, his family has confirmed.

In a statement, his family told People magazine: "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."

Philbin began his career in the mid 1950’s and gained legendary status hosting ‘Live! with Regis’, with co-hosts Kathie Lee Gifford and then Kelly Ripa.

He announced he was retiring from the show in 2011 after he had hosted the programme for over 23 years.

A Guinness World Records entry says: "The most hours on US television is 16,746.50 hours by presenter Regis Philbin (USA) whose career spans 52 years as of 15 September 2011."

Tributes have poured in on social media, with Donald Trump leading the way.

The US president wrote: “One of the greats in the history of television, Regis Philbin has passed on to even greater airwaves, at 88. He was a fantastic person, and my friend. He kept telling me to run for President. Holds the record for “most live television”, and he did it well. Regis, we love you....”

Talk show host Jimmy Kimmel tweeted: "Regis was a great broadcaster, a good friend and a tremendous amount of fun. He leaves behind a beautiful family and a TV legacy that will likely go unmatched."

And his former co-host Ripa and TV host Ryan Seacrest, who now host Live!, paid tribute: "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 everyday on Live for more than 23 years. 

“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.”

While talk show host Ellen DeGeneres said: “Regis Philbin spent more time on television than almost anyone. And we were all better for it. Sending love to his family and his fans”

He is survived by his wife and TV host Joy Senese, their two daughters, his two children from his first marriage and grandchildren.

Philbin was also famous for hosting Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, the first season of America’s Got Talent and Million Dollar Password.

He also acted in many TV shows, mainly as himself, including: How I Met Your Mother, Mad About You and Seinfeld.

Philbin was awarded a Hollywood Walk of Fame star in 2003 and later bestowed the honour of being indicted into the Television Hall of Fame in 2006.

He was celebrated during awards season, picking up three daytime Emmy’s and a Lifetime Achievement gong.