Michael Reagan, the eldest son of President Ronald Reagan, died today. The Conservative commentator and author may have been best known for his syndicated radio program, the Michael Reagan Show.
Michael Reagan, son of former President Ronald Reagan, dead at 80 https://t.co/hmRpU4bNMc pic.twitter.com/SOlmmJoMVL
— New York Post (@nypost) January 6, 2026
Michael was the adopted son of Ronald Reagan and Jane Wyman. In his early years, he followed his parents' footsteps into acting, appearing in shows such as Falcon Crest, which starred his mother. He even hosted the game show Lingo in 1987.
It was after his father's presidency that he found his calling in political commentary and talk radio. He began his radio career as a guest host on KABC in Los Angeles. He later hosted his own show on KSDO radio in San Diego, after which he hosted the nationally syndicated Michael Reagan show.
He authored several books, including The New Reagan Revolution and his autobiography, On the Outside Looking In.
In recent years, he was a Newsmax contributor and continued to work closely with his father's presidential foundation and library.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute mourns the passing of Michael Reagan, the eldest son of President Ronald Reagan and Jane Wyman, and a steadfast guardian of his father’s legacy.
— Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute (@RonaldReagan) January 6, 2026
Michael Reagan lived a life shaped by conviction, purpose, and an abiding… pic.twitter.com/Y4VX9M8nsb
The post continues:
Michael Reagan lived a life shaped by conviction, purpose, and an abiding devotion to President Reagan’s ideals.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Colleen, Cameron, Ashley, and the entire Reagan family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of sorrow.
Newsmax also eulogized her colleague.
Conservative analyst and Newsmax contributor Michael Reagan, son of former President Ronald Reagan, died Sunday, according to a statement released by his family. He was 80.https://t.co/QJXQBnmk1Y pic.twitter.com/c0awnh1wb1
— NEWSMAX (@NEWSMAX) January 6, 2026
"Michael Reagan was far more than a political commentator," Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy said in a statement. "He was the living embodiment of his father's legacy, and throughout his life he worked tirelessly to carry forward Ronald Reagan's torch for freedom, family, and faith.
"Michael approached everything he did with extraordinary enthusiasm and energy. He deeply loved his family and his country.
"We at Newsmax will miss him greatly and will never forget the role he played in helping build Newsmax into one of the nation's newest and most influential media outlets.
"The Reagan family has lost a devoted husband and father, America has lost a great patriot, and I have lost a dear friend."
A statement released by the family simply stated that Michael was 'Called home to be with the Lord.'
In the statement issued Tuesday and signed by his wife, Colleen, and daughters Cameron Reagan and Ashley Reagan Dunster, the family said Reagan was "called home to be with the Lord."
The family described him as a man who meant "so much to all who knew and loved him" and said they are deeply grieving the loss.
"We appreciate your prayers and ask that you would respect our family's privacy during this difficult time," the statement said.
No official cause of death has been released.
Crushed to hear the news of Michael Reagan’s passing. What a life he led and always with a huge smile. RIP to one of the best. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/yeWZXC0Ej8
— Katie Pavlich (@KatiePavlich) January 6, 2026
Michael Reagan was such a wonderful inspiration to so many of us. That was particularly true of the students who heard him at Young America’s Foundation’s programs at the Reagan Ranch.
— Scott Walker (@ScottWalker) January 6, 2026
He did so much more than share stories about his father. He challenged the next generation… pic.twitter.com/bq6LiaHe9Z
So sad to learn of the passing of Michael Reagan. We became friends in 1979 campaigning for our dads and maintained that friendship over the years. He loved his family and his country. Columba and I are praying for Colleen and his children.
— Jeb Bush (@JebBush) January 6, 2026
Michael Reagan leaves behind his wife, Colleen, and his daughters, Cameron and Ashley.
He was eighty years old.
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