Regis Philbin Joins 'Rachael Ray' as Special Recurring Guest

Ray's first episode with Philbin to air Sept. 24

By Paige Albiniak -- Broadcasting & Cable, 9/19/2012 10:37:00 AM

CBS Television Distribution's Rachael Ray will welcome Regis Philbin as a special recurring guest throughout the show's seventh season, starting Monday, Sept. 24.

"Regis has been a close friend of the show and a close friend of mine for years and it'll be a blast having him on the team," said show host Rachael Ray in a statement.

"He's a perfect fit for our show, and for the viewers who miss spending part of their day with him," added executive producer Janet Annino.

Last November, Philbin, 81, left Disney-ABC's Live! with Regis and Kelly, after hosting the show for 28 years. This stint on Rachael Ray marks his return to daytime television.