Los Angeles: Michael Reagan, the eldest son of former President Ronald Reagan and a longtime conservative voice, has died at the age of 80.

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute announced his passing Tuesday on the social media platform X, describing Reagan as “a steadfast guardian of his father’s legacy.” The foundation said his life was defined by “conviction, purpose, and an abiding devotion to President Reagan’s ideals.”

Reagan’s cause of death was not immediately disclosed. In a family statement, his wife, Colleen Reagan, along with his children, Cameron Reagan and Ashley Reagan Dunster, said he died Sunday, January 4, surrounded by loved ones. “Our hearts are deeply broken as we grieve the loss of a man who meant so much to all who knew and loved him,” they wrote.

Adopted by the Reagan family hours after birth

Born in 1945 to Irene Flaugher, Michael Reagan was adopted just hours after his birth by Ronald Reagan and his first wife, actor Jane Wyman. He later pursued a career in entertainment and media, attending Arizona State University and Los Angeles Valley College before appearing in television programs such as 'Falcon Crest'. He eventually became best known as a conservative commentator, hosting 'The Michael Reagan Show' for nearly two decades and contributing to the Newsmax television network.

Reagan reflected on his life and upbringing in several books, including the autobiographical 'On the Outside Looking In' and 'Twice Adopted', which explored a challenging childhood, his adoption, and his faith. In 'Lessons My Father Taught Me', published in 2016, he shared personal insights into growing up as the son of the 40th president.

Philanthropic work

Beyond media and writing, Reagan was active in philanthropy. He raised funds for numerous causes through powerboat racing, supporting organizations such as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and the Statue of Liberty Restoration Fund. He also served on the advisory board of the Mixed Roots Foundation, which focuses on foster care and adoption in the United States and abroad.

Preserving a Presidential legacy

Reagan additionally spent three years as chair of the John Douglas French Alzheimer’s Foundation, advocating for research into the disease that claimed his father’s life in 2004. As president and chair of the Reagan Legacy Foundation, he worked to preserve and promote Ronald Reagan’s political philosophy and accomplishments, including efforts to limit government and bring the Cold War to an end.

AP