At a Glance
- Michael Reagan, 80, eldest son of Ronald Reagan, died January 4
- The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation calls him “a steadfast guardian of his father’s legacy”
- Cause of death not announced; he was surrounded by family
- Why it matters: The conservative commentator spent decades shaping public remembrance of the 40th president
Michael Reagan, adopted at birth by Ronald Reagan and Jane Wyman, spent his life amplifying his father’s ideals through radio, TV, and philanthropy.
A Life in the Spotlight
After studying at Arizona State University and Los Angeles Valley College, Reagan acted on shows like Falcon Crest. He later hosted The Michael Reagan Show for nearly 20 years.
- Books: On the Outside Looking In, Twice Adopted, Lessons My Father Taught Me
- Media: Contributor to Newsmax TV
Philanthropy & Legacy Work
Reagan used powerboat racing to raise funds for:
- Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
- Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
- Statue of Liberty Restoration Fund
He chaired the John Douglas French Alzheimer’s Foundation board for three years, the disease that claimed his father in 2004.
Family statement:
> “Michael was called home to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 4th, surrounded by his entire family.”
Foundation tribute:
> “Michael Reagan lived a life shaped by conviction, purpose, and an abiding devotion to President Reagan’s ideals.”
Key Takeaways
- Michael Reagan died at 80; funeral details pending
- He led the Reagan Legacy Foundation to preserve the 40th president’s memory
- His radio career and books cemented him as a conservative voice
- Philanthropic focus on adoption, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s research
The Reagan family asks for privacy as they grieve the loss of a man who spent eight decades championing his father’s principles.
