Regis Philbin’s tearless sign-off

"Some people ask, why has the show stayed on so long? And I think it's answered to me every time people tell me why they watch it. They watch it, they say, because it makes them feel better. And it can't get better than that. It makes them happy and I'll never be able to top that. And I'll never be able to answer all of the cards and letters and messages that have poured in, especially in the last few weeks, but I'll always remember spending these mornings with all of you. So thank you very much for these great years together. God bless you all, and I hope I see you again real soon."

-- Regis Philbin's final words on Friday's "Live With Regis & Kelly," his final broadcast after 28 years on morning television. The 80-year-old TV icon did not cry, but his co-host, Kelly Ripa, fought back tears during Philbin's send-off.

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