John McLaughlin’s 34-year streak ends

John McLaughlin’s streak of hosting “The McLaughlin Group” each week for an astounding 34 years, seven months, and one week came to end this weekend due to an undisclosed illness.

The 89-year-old has been the syndicated program’s only host since it debuted on Jan. 1, 1982.

{mosads}“I am under the weather,” McLaughlin explained in a note that led this week’s edition. He said his voice is “weaker than usual,” but declared “my spirit is strong and my dedication to the show remains absolute!”

Longtime panelist Pat Buchanan called McLaughlin the show’s “distinguished leader,” adding, “We miss him.”

Buchanan was joined by Eleanor Clift, Tom Rogan and Clarence Page. 

Rogan closed the program by stating, “On behalf of the panel we want to say to John, we’re thinking of you and you have our very best.”

McLaughlin is the creator and executive producer of “The McLaughlin Group.” The program airs nationally on various CBS stations and on public networks.

No details were provided about McLaughlin’s ailment.