Regis Philbin quit over a pay cut proposed by executives at ABC, sources told TMZ.com

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The longtime U.S. television host this week unexpectedly announced on the air that he would end his 30-year run to pursue other opportunities.

TMZ said Saturday that the 79-year-old icon was actually given a nudge toward the door by the network, which sources said wanted to reduce his salary. The reasons included unexciting ratings and his frequent absences.

Sources also said the announcement blindsided production staff and co-host Kelly Ripa, who only learned of his decision 15 minutes before they went on the air.

Philbin also fired his agent, apparently in an angry response to the salary offer, TMZ said.