A renowned advice columnist and radio host, known for offering witty and wise counsel to millions through her iconic "Dear Abby" column.
Pauline Phillips, better known by her pen name Abigail Van Buren, was the renowned American advice columnist and radio show host behind the iconic Dear Abby newspaper column, which debuted in 1956 and went on to become the most widely syndicated newspaper column in the world, reaching 110 million readers across 1,400 newspapers.
Phillips was born Pauline Esther Friedman on July 4, 1918, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Russian Jewish immigrants Rebecca (née Rushall) and Abraham B. Friedman. She was the youngest of four sisters, including her identical twin Esther Pauline Friedman, who would later become the columnist Ann Landers.
Phillips grew up in Sioux City and graduated from Central High School and Morningside College, where she studied journalism and psychology. During her college days, she and her twin sister wrote a joint gossip column for the college newspaper, foreshadowing their future careers as advice columnists.
In January 1956, at the age of 37, Phillips launched her writing career with a bold phone call to the editor of the San Francisco Chronicle, claiming she could write a better advice column than the one she had been reading in the newspaper. Editor Stanleigh Arnold gave her a chance, and Phillips delivered her replies to a set of letters in an impressive hour and a half.
Thus began the Dear Abby column, which quickly gained popularity for its sage advice, humor, and candor. Phillips' unique voice and approach resonated with readers, and her column soon became a staple in newspapers across the country.
In addition to her newspaper column, Phillips also hosted a daily Dear Abby program on CBS Radio from 1963 to 1975, further expanding her reach and influence.
Phillips' impact on modern society cannot be overstated. Her column tackled topics that were previously considered taboo, such as sexuality, relationships, and social issues, helping to break down barriers and foster greater understanding and empathy.
Her influence can be seen in the many advice columnists who followed in her footsteps, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of writers and journalists.
Phillips received numerous awards and honors for her work, including the National Medal of Honor from the National Association of Journalists and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Phillips was married to Morton Phillips of Minneapolis and had a son, Edward, and a daughter, Jeanne. She was also the paternal stepgrandmother of U.S. Congressman Dean Phillips.
Pauline Phillips, aka Abigail Van Buren, left an indelible mark on American journalism and culture. Her trailblazing career, marked by confidence, candor, and compassion, continues to inspire and influence writers, journalists, and readers to this day.
Born in 1918
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