Michael Reagan, the eldest son of former President Ronald Reagan and actress Jane Wyman, passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026, in Los Angeles at the age of 80. The news was shared by his family and confirmed by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute in a statement on Tuesday, marking the end of a life spent both in the public eye and behind the scenes as a steadfast advocate for his father’s legacy and conservative values.
Surrounded by his family at the time of his death, Michael Reagan’s passing followed a battle with cancer, according to Andrew Coffin of the Young America’s Foundation and director of the Reagan Ranch, as reported by ABC News. His family described him as a beloved husband, father, and grandpa, saying, “Michael was and will always remain a beloved husband, father, and grandpa. Our hearts are deeply broken as we grieve the loss of a man who meant so much to all who knew and loved him.” His wife, Colleen, and children, Cameron Reagan and Ashley Reagan Dunster, echoed these sentiments, noting, “Michael was called home to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 4th, surrounded by his entire family in Los Angeles, California.”
Michael Reagan’s life was, in many ways, shaped by the extraordinary circumstances of his birth and adoption. Born in March 1945 to Irene Flaugher, he was adopted just hours after his birth by Ronald Reagan and Jane Wyman. The couple, both Hollywood stars at the time, also had two daughters—Maureen Reagan, a political activist who died in 2001, and Christine Reagan, who died at birth. Ronald Reagan would later marry Nancy Reagan, with whom he had two more children: Patti Davis and Ron Reagan Jr.
Growing up in a family that would become synonymous with American conservatism and the presidency, Michael Reagan charted his own path while remaining deeply connected to his father’s ideals. After attending Arizona State University and Los Angeles Valley College, he initially pursued acting, appearing in television shows such as “Falcon Crest.” However, his career soon shifted toward conservative commentary and broadcasting, where he found his true calling.
As a nationally syndicated radio talk show host, Michael Reagan became a familiar voice to millions. His program, “The Michael Reagan Show,” ran for nearly two decades and tackled issues of politics and culture from a distinctly conservative perspective. He was also a contributor to Newsmax and authored several books, including autobiographical works like “On the Outside Looking In” and “Twice Adopted,” in which he candidly discussed his adoption, personal challenges, and journey of faith. In “Lessons My Father Taught Me,” published in 2016, he reflected on growing up as Ronald Reagan’s son and the life lessons imparted by his father.
Throughout his public life, Michael Reagan was lauded for his unwavering commitment to the principles his father championed—limited government, personal responsibility, and the pursuit of freedom. As Fred Ryan, chairman of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute’s board, stated, “Michael Reagan lived a life shaped by conviction, purpose, and an abiding devotion to President Reagan’s ideals.” The foundation itself described him as “a steadfast guardian of his father’s legacy,” underscoring the vital role he played in keeping the Reagan legacy alive for future generations.
Michael Reagan’s influence extended beyond broadcasting and writing. He was a sought-after public speaker, regularly addressing conservative student groups and political organizations. Former Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, who now leads the Young America’s Foundation, praised Reagan as “a wonderful inspiration to so many of us.” Walker noted, “He did so much more than share stories about his father. He challenged the next generation to share the values he stood for throughout his public life. He called on them to be happy warriors in the battle to uphold the founding principles of our republic.”
His advocacy was not limited to the political sphere. Michael Reagan was deeply involved in charitable work, using his passion for powerboat racing to raise funds for organizations such as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and the Statue of Liberty Restoration Fund. He served on the advisory board for the Mixed Roots Foundation, which focuses on foster care and adoption, and chaired the John Douglas French Alzheimer’s Foundation for three years—a cause close to his heart after his father’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Michael Reagan’s dedication to his family and his father’s legacy was evident in his role as president and chair of the Reagan Legacy Foundation. The foundation’s mission, to preserve and promote the ideals of Ronald Reagan, found a passionate leader in Michael, who worked tirelessly to ensure that the values of freedom and limited government remained at the forefront of public discourse. The foundation described his death as “a profound loss,” adding that his “presence, warmth, and unwavering commitment will be deeply missed at the Reagan Library and far beyond its walls.”
Condolences poured in from across the political spectrum. Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, whose father served as Ronald Reagan’s vice president, shared, “We became friends in 1979 campaigning for our dads and maintained that friendship over the years. He loved his family and his country. Columba and I are praying for Colleen and his children.” Such tributes highlighted not only Michael Reagan’s public achievements but also the personal connections he fostered throughout his life.
Michael Reagan was also known for his willingness to speak his mind, even when it meant critiquing fellow conservatives. In 2015, he criticized then-candidate Donald Trump, stating, “Trump Republicans bash everyone in the building and blow it up on the way out,” as reported by Politico. This independent streak was emblematic of his broader commitment to principled conservatism rather than partisan loyalty.
He is survived by his wife, Colleen Stearns Reagan, their children Cameron Reagan and Ashley Reagan Dunster, his grandchildren, and his half-siblings Patti Davis and Ron Reagan Jr. The family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, asking for privacy as they mourn their loss and remember a man who meant so much to so many.
Michael Reagan’s life was, by any measure, one of impact and conviction. From the airwaves to charitable causes, from family gatherings to the halls of the Reagan Library, his influence will be felt for years to come. His legacy, much like that of his father, endures in the principles he championed and the countless lives he touched along the way.
