Michael Reagan, the oldest son of President Ronald Reagan and a notable conservative commentator, has died at the age of 80. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute publicly announced his passing on the social media platform X on Tuesday, describing him as "a steadfast guardian of his father’s legacy."
The foundation emphasized that Michael Reagan’s life was marked by firm convictions and a strong dedication to the values espoused by his father, stating, "Michael Reagan lived a life shaped by conviction, purpose, and an abiding devotion to President Reagan’s ideals." At the time of the announcement, the specific cause of his death had not been disclosed.
His wife, Colleen Reagan, along with their two children, Cameron Reagan and Ashley Reagan Dunster, issued a heartfelt statement revealing that Michael was "called home to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 4th, surrounded by his entire family." They expressed their profound grief over the loss of a man who had a significant impact on the lives of those close to him.
Throughout his career, Michael Reagan was recognized for his conservative viewpoints, which he expressed as a contributor to the Newsmax television network and as host of "The Michael Reagan Show," a talk radio program addressing political and cultural topics.
Born in 1945 to Irene Flaugher, Michael was adopted shortly after birth by Ronald Reagan and his then-wife, actress Jane Wyman. He was raised in a family deeply embedded in the entertainment and political spheres, following paths initiated by his adoptive parents.
His education included attendance at Arizona State University and Los Angeles Valley College. Afterward, he pursued acting, appearing in television series such as "Falcon Crest." Eventually, he turned to a career as a conservative radio talk show host, where he discussed various issues pertinent to politics and culture over nearly twenty years.
Michael Reagan authored two autobiographical works, "On the Outside Looking In" and "Twice Adopted," in which he candidly shared his experiences coping with the complexities of his adoption and his exploration of personal faith during a sometimes challenging childhood.
In addition to these memoirs, he published several other books, including "Lessons My Father Taught Me" in 2016, which offered insights into the teachings and values he absorbed growing up as the son of Ronald Reagan.
Throughout his life, Michael was actively involved in charitable efforts, utilizing his passion for powerboat racing as a platform to raise funds for organizations such as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and the Statue of Liberty Restoration Fund. He also contributed his expertise by serving on the advisory board of the Mixed Roots Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting foster care and adoption initiatives both in the United States and internationally.
Michael Reagan served as chair of the John Douglas French Alzheimer’s Foundation board for three years, advocating for research and awareness of Alzheimer’s disease, which claimed his father’s life in 2004. As president and chair of the Reagan Legacy Foundation, he was a prominent advocate for preserving and promoting the principles and historical significance of his father’s presidency, which was notable for policies aimed at reducing government influence and efforts focused on ending the Cold War.