Regis Francis Xavier Philbin has enjoyed more success with more talk shows than perhaps any other individual on television during his 35+ years in show-biz. In his first talk show "The Regis Philbin Show" on KGTV-TV in San Diego, Philbin's routine would ultimately become his trademark: "host chat."

A die-hard Notre Dame graduate and sports enthusiast, Regis served in the Navy before becoming a "Tonight Show" page, a Hollywood gofer, and a news writer at a local Los Angeles station. By the early 60's, Philbin began working as a sportscaster, news anchor, and late-night host in San Diego. He then started to gain national exposure on "The Joey Bishop Show" in 1967 as the host's sidekick. Regis was constantly belittled by the star of the variety program and even walked off the set during one of the live performances. He returned several days later, but still regards his time on the show as the lowest period of his career.

He followed with a prosperous run on "A.M. Los Angeles," that lasted seven years. Then he turned in an Emmy-winning performance with "The Regis Philbin Show." Finally he teamed with Cindy Garvey on New York City's "The Morning Show." The show was a loser in the ratings in 1983 but when Kathie Lee Gifford replaced Garvey the chemistry between the new hosts made a potent and popular formula and the show went into syndication as "Live! With Regis and Kathie Lee" in 1989. Within two years, it was the fastest-growing talk show in the nation. By 1994 the show had a weekly audience of 18 million. A large part of that success can be attributed to the show's unscripted, impromptu format, which takes full advantage of Philbin's energy, and ability to turn the most mundane topics into full-blown conversation pieces.

In addition, Philbin has appeared in numerous network series, including "Life's Work," "Mad About You," "Seinfeld," "Cosby Mysteries," "Hope and Gloria," a Perry Mason TV movie, and a feature film "A Bronx Tale." He also authored the best-selling book "I'm Only One Man." A diary of sorts, the book includes anecdotes from his professional and personal life, as well as memoirs from the entertainment veteran.

Most recently he has enjoyed another hit with the game show "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" Regis and his wife Joy (a frequent "Live" co-host) live in Manhattan and Connecticut. They share two grown daughters, Joanna and Jennifer.