How old is Kathie Lee Gifford? As of March 2026, the beloved American television host, singer, and author is 72 years old, continuing to remain active in entertainment and creative projects.
Kathie Lee Gifford was born August 16, 1953, in Paris, France, to American parents. Over the past several decades, she built a remarkable career in television, music, writing, and film. Many viewers still associate her with daytime television, especially her long-running hosting roles. Even in her seventies, she continues to pursue new creative work while staying connected with fans across media platforms.
This article explores the answer to how old is Kathie Lee Gifford, along with the milestones that shaped her career, recent activities, and why she remains a familiar name in American entertainment.
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Kathie Lee Gifford’s Age in 2026
Kathie Lee Gifford turned 72 years old on August 16, 2025.
Here is a quick overview of key details about her:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kathryn Lee Gifford |
| Birthdate | August 16, 1953 |
| Birthplace | Paris, France |
| Age (2026) | 72 |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | TV host, singer, author, actress |
Although she was born in France, her family moved to the United States during her childhood. She grew up primarily in Maryland and later attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Her early interest in music and performing set the stage for a career that would span more than four decades.
Early Life and Education
Kathie Lee Gifford spent much of her childhood in Bowie, Maryland. Her father, Aaron Epstein, served in the U.S. Navy and worked as a musician. Her mother, Joan Epstein, was also a singer.
Music played a central role in Gifford’s upbringing. She often performed during church events and school activities.
During college, she studied drama and music at Oral Roberts University. While attending school, she also worked on television projects connected to the university’s broadcasting network.
Those early experiences helped her develop the skills that later defined her television career.
Breakthrough in Television
Kathie Lee Gifford gained national recognition during the 1980s.
Her first major television exposure came through appearances on the game show “Name That Tune.” She served as a singer on the program from 1977 to 1978.
However, her career truly accelerated when she joined the morning talk show “Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee.”
Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee (1985–2000)
Gifford co-hosted the popular program alongside Regis Philbin for 15 years.
The show became a major part of American morning television. It blended celebrity interviews, lifestyle segments, and casual conversation between the hosts.
Key highlights of her time on the show include:
- Launching the program’s nationwide syndication success
- Building a highly recognizable hosting style
- Becoming one of the most recognizable faces on daytime TV
- Earning multiple Daytime Emmy nominations
Her chemistry with Philbin played a major role in the show’s popularity. Millions of viewers tuned in daily.
When Gifford left the program in 2000, it marked the end of an era in daytime television.
Return to Daytime TV: Today Show
After several years focusing on family and creative projects, Gifford returned to daily television.
In 2008, she joined NBC’s Today show as co-host of the fourth hour alongside Hoda Kotb.
The segment quickly became a fan favorite.
Their relaxed style, humor, and open discussions attracted a loyal audience. The hour often included celebrity guests, lifestyle topics, and candid conversations.
Key achievements from the Today era
- Co-hosted Today with Kathie Lee & Hoda from 2008 to 2019
- Received Daytime Emmy Awards recognition
- Developed one of the most recognizable duos in morning television
- Built a strong fan following across social media
Gifford announced her departure in 2018 and officially left the show in April 2019.
She said she wanted to focus on film writing, music, and personal projects.
Life After Leaving the Today Show
Even at age 72, Kathie Lee Gifford continues working in creative fields.
After leaving NBC, she relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, where she expanded her involvement in music, film, and writing.
Her post-television work includes:
- Writing and producing film projects
- Recording music albums
- Publishing books
- Speaking at events and faith-based gatherings
Nashville provided a creative environment that aligned with her passion for storytelling and music.
Film and Creative Projects
Gifford has increasingly focused on film writing and production in recent years.
One of her notable projects is the film “Then Came You” (2020). She wrote the screenplay and also starred in the movie.
The romantic drama featured:
- Craig Ferguson
- Elizabeth Hurley
- Kathie Lee Gifford
The project reflected her long-standing interest in storytelling and filmmaking.
She has also worked on several faith-inspired creative productions connected to biblical history and storytelling.
Music Career and Albums
Music remains an important part of Gifford’s life.
She has released multiple albums throughout her career, often blending pop, gospel, and inspirational themes.
Some of her musical projects include:
- The Heart of a Woman (2000)
- Goodnight, Angel
- Party Animals
- Collaborative musical productions and stage works
Her Nashville move strengthened her ties to the music industry. The city’s songwriting community helped her explore new creative directions.
Books and Writing
Kathie Lee Gifford also established herself as a successful author.
She has written several books focused on faith, inspiration, and personal experiences.
Some well-known titles include:
- It’s Never Too Late
- The Rock, the Road, and the Rabbi
- Hello, Little Dreamer
Her writing often blends storytelling with spiritual reflection. Many readers appreciate the personal tone and life lessons she shares.
Family and Personal Life
Kathie Lee Gifford married Frank Gifford, a former NFL star and sports broadcaster, in 1986.
Frank Gifford played for the New York Giants and later became a broadcaster on Monday Night Football.
The couple had two children:
- Cody Newton Gifford
- Cassidy Erin Gifford, an actress
Frank Gifford passed away in August 2015 at age 84.
Kathie Lee has spoken openly about grief and healing since his passing. Her faith and family remain central parts of her life.
She often shares updates about her children and grandchildren through public appearances and social media.
Public Appearances and Media Presence
Even after stepping away from daily television, Gifford still appears in media interviews and special events.
Her appearances often focus on:
- Film and music projects
- Faith-based storytelling
- Personal reflections on her career
She occasionally joins former colleagues for television reunions or special segments.
Fans still recognize her for her energetic personality and warm humor.
Why People Still Search: “How Old Is Kathie Lee Gifford”
The question how old is Kathie Lee Gifford remains popular online because she has been in the public eye for decades.
Many viewers grew up watching her on daytime television.
Her longevity in entertainment spans multiple generations:
- 1970s game shows
- 1980s and 1990s morning television
- 2000s media appearances
- 2010s Today show era
- 2020s creative projects
Few television personalities maintain that level of visibility across such a long period.
Her ability to reinvent her career also contributes to ongoing interest in her life and age.
Career Timeline
Here is a simplified timeline of major moments in her career.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1977 | Appeared on “Name That Tune” |
| 1985 | Joined “Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee” |
| 2000 | Left Live! after 15 years |
| 2008 | Joined NBC’s Today show |
| 2019 | Departed Today to pursue creative projects |
| 2020 | Wrote and starred in “Then Came You” |
| 2026 | Continues writing, producing, and creative work |
This timeline highlights the steady evolution of her career.
Kathie Lee Gifford at 72
At 72 years old, Kathie Lee Gifford remains active and engaged with creative work.
Many entertainers slow down significantly by this stage of life. Gifford has taken the opposite approach.
She continues to:
- Write scripts and books
- Record music
- Participate in film projects
- Speak at events and conferences
Her move to Nashville allowed her to pursue passions that television schedules previously limited.
Fans often praise her positive outlook and work ethic.
Influence on American Daytime Television
Kathie Lee Gifford helped shape modern morning television.
Her casual hosting style influenced many programs that followed.
During the Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee era, the show’s conversational tone felt fresh and relatable. Viewers felt like they were listening to friends talk.
The dynamic she later created with Hoda Kotb also became one of the most beloved partnerships on the Today show.
Several current hosts cite her style as an influence.
Legacy in Entertainment
Kathie Lee Gifford’s legacy includes contributions across multiple industries.
Her career spans:
- Television hosting
- Music recording
- Film writing
- Acting
- Book publishing
Few personalities have worked successfully in so many different areas.
Her work ethic and longevity remain defining traits of her career.
Even as audiences search how old is Kathie Lee Gifford, many fans express surprise at how active she remains.
Final Thoughts
Kathie Lee Gifford is 72 years old in 2026, but her creative drive continues to shape new projects and public appearances.
Her journey from game shows to iconic morning television and now film writing shows remarkable versatility.
Decades after her first national TV appearance, she remains a recognizable and respected figure in American entertainment.
What are your favorite Kathie Lee Gifford television moments? Share your thoughts and stay tuned for more updates about her career.
