Kelly Ripa and others pay tribute to Regis Philbin, who has died aged 88

Earlier today, it was revealed that legendary television personality Regis Philbin had died at the age of 88.

The beloved star passed away on July 24, his family has confirmed in a statement to PEOPLE.

"We are deeply saddened to share that our beloved Regis Philbin passed away last night of natural causes, one month shy of his 89th birthday. His family and friends are forever grateful for the time we got to spend with him – for his warmth, his legendary sense of humor, 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." 

Now, tributes have poured in on social media, as his friends, colleagues and fans pay tribute to one of the greats.

Kelly Ripa, who spent 10 years by Regis' side on Live! With Regis And Kelly took to Instagram to share an emotional tribute on behalf of her and fellow co-host Ryan Seacrest. She wrote:

"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."

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Star Trek legend William Shatner tweeted: "Saddened to hear about the passing of Regis Philbin. Condolences to his wife Joy."

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Presenter Jimmy Kimmel also paid respect to his fellow TV host, writing: "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.

"Regis, I hope our friend Rickles met you at the pearly gates with open arms and a slew of the insults you loved so much."

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And television host Jillian Barberie called her time presenting with Philbin a "highlight of her career", as she tweeted: "Another highlight of my career was co-hosting with Regis on Live It was a once in a lifetime moment to sit beside the king of improv tv. He was funny and gracious and warm. Love to Joy and his family."

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Disney chairman Robert Iger also paid his respects, writing: "We are heartbroken to hear that a long time colleague & friend, #regisphilbin passed away at the age of 88. Regis graced us with warmth, humor & a self-deprecating wit, always bringing happiness to us all.

"Our hearts go out to Joy and to his family. Rest In Peace, Regis."

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Comedian Bob Saget also spoke about his love for his late friend, writing: "What a loss- The wonderful Regis Philbin. I met him in 1985 when I was on the “Rodney Dangerfield Young Comedians Special” and we loved each other ever since. Such a TV icon and above all, a good man. My sympathies to Joy and all of his children and friends."

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Host and comedian Billy Eichner wrote: "RIP REGIS!!! A real icon. Nothing will ever top Regis and @KathieLGifford as a morning show. Nothing!"

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And motivational speaker Janine Stange also took to Twitter to highlight Philbin's time in the US Navy: "#RIPRegis - Regis Philbin has passed away at 88. He served in the #USNavy as a supply officer from 1953-1955."

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Philbin was born on August 25, 1931 in the Bronx, New York.

He first started working in Hollywood back in the 1950s while working on The Tonight Show, under which he served as a page.

Philbin then went on to work in local news for a brief period, before gaining network exposure in the 1960s on The Joey Bishop Show.

Philbin later became synonymous with Live! With Regis And Kathie Lee and later Live! With Regis And Kelly.

He hosted alongside Kelly until 2011, when he was replaced by Michael Strahan.

He also hosted some of the most popular television gameshows in history, including Deal Or No Deal, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? and Million Dollar Password, and he presented the first series reality TV show America's Got Talent.

Regis is survived by his wife, Joy, and his four children J. J. Philbin, Daniel Philbin, Joanna Philbin, and Amy Philbin.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and fans during this time...