Regis To Undergo Bypass Surgery

Talk Show Host Was Experiencing Chest Pains, Shortness Of Breath

(CBS/AP)  Regis Philbin is having bypass surgery this week. He made the announcement on "Live With Regis and Kelly."

"Well, listen, I gotta tell you something. ... I had been feeling chest pains, you know, and, uh, shortness of breath and all those little symptoms that you hear about," Philbin, 75, told his TV audience. After a number of tests, doctors recommended bypass surgery.

Philbin said he was hoping to have angioplasty because "you know, you get in — bang, bang, bang — they blow it open and you leave the next day." But, he said, "there's some plaque in some arteries and I've got to get it cleaned out."

He's not looking forward to the surgery.

"Darn it, I don't want to do it," Philbin said. "Nobody wants to do it, I guess. And I had a second opinion, I did all those things, and so they're all in agreement that it should be the bypass. And so that's what I'm gonna do."

His co-host, Kelly Ripa, said she planned to give Philbin some special attention.

"My primary job will be, like it or not, get your pills ready — your sponge-bath nurse," she said.

Philbin quipped: "Why don't you give me a quick dip before I go?"

It was announced recently that Philbin will not return as host on the NBC reality show "America's Got Talent." "Dancing With The Stars" alum Jerry Springer will take over his duties when the second season begins this summer.

[flolake]

Maybe they'll sew his mouth shut wile they're at it. What a bore.

[lauraboo6]

Regis seems like such a decent, nice guy, almost like a lovable uncle. I really care about him, and send him all my best wishes for a speedy and full recovery.

[rondok1]

Regis,
I had a quad done 5yrs ago and it went fine

It's not as bad as you might think.....although to be honest it's not nearly as much fun as going out for a six pack and a pizza.

Best wishes....

[whynow1]

I have loved and admired Regis for years. His great attitude and love of life will get him through this. Plus he's in great physical shape. 75 years old? He doesn't look it. He's just a kid. Get well soon Regis! Love you!!!!

Keep the great attitude...........

[rbfain]

Hate to hear this. He is really one of the few "Goods Ones" left.