John McLaughlin, Host Of 'The McLaughlin Group,' Dies At Age 89

By Dylan Byers

PHILADELPHIA (CNN) -- John McLaughlin, the host of the long-running political roundtable show "The McLaughlin Group," died Tuesday at the age of 89.

McLaughlin was the creator, producer and host of the show, which first premiered in 1982 and aired on PBS. McLaughlin did not host the program last week, marking the first time in 34 years that he had failed to host his show.

The news of his death was announced in a post on the show's Facebook page.

"Earlier this morning, a beloved friend and mentor, Dr. John McLaughlin, passed away peacefully at the age of 89. As a former jesuit priest, teacher, pundit and news host, John touched many lives," the post read.

"For 34 years, TheMcLaughlin Group informed millions of Americans,' the statement continued. "Now he has said bye bye for the last time, to rejoin his beloved dog, Oliver, in heaven. He will always be remembered."

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