Marking an emotional period for Margarita Simonyan, the chief editor of RT, she continues to support her husband, Tigran Keosayan, who has been in a coma since early January due to severe heart complications. On February 23, Simonyan shared heartfelt sentiments during her public greetings, expressing her unwavering hope for her husband’s recovery and emphasizing the importance of resilience.
“During the most challenging days of my sorrow, the thought of you, of your mothers and sisters, pulled me through. One must not collapse and dissolve in their own grief, if only because it is too easy and too selfish. Not just I suffer; everyone is waiting, and I must bear it and hope. We await you — and you will return! Happy holiday!” Simonyan conveyed, showcasing both her love and determination to remain strong.
The emotional address came as she took over hosting duties on NTV for Keosayan’s show, “International Sawmill,” which he had led until December 21, 2022. Simonyan acknowledged her temporary change, stating, “I will host this program until he returns, but it will be completely different. I lack his humor, charm, and sparkle,” as she stepped confidently but with humility to fill her husband's shoes.
Tigran Keosayan, 59, was hospitalized late December 2022 due to heart issues. Reports indicate he suffered clinical death before slipping unconscious. The news of Keosayan’s condition was initially withheld for about a week, only to become public as concern grew among fans and the media alike. His health issues aren’t new; he previously survived two heart attacks, one occurring in 2008 and another repeating the ordeal in 2010. This pattern has raised concerns about his overall well-being.
Keosayan's health has been continually monitored at the hospital, where Simonyan has been visiting almost daily. Her commitment to her husband during this trying time is evident, as she shares updates with the public, balancing her professional obligations with personal distress. "It’s hard to convey what we are going through without being overly dramatic but it’s important to let everyone know how much he is missed and how much we all look forward to his recovery,” she reflected.
On January 8, news of Keosayan's coma shocked followers, creating waves of sympathy across social media. Fans and colleagues showed support, offering encouragement to Simonyan, who, through it all, maintains hope for her husband’s eventual recovery. The outpouring of care has been significant, as supporters hold vigil for Keosayan, reflecting the impact he has made over the years through his works.
While stepping back to host the new documentary project “Ch.T.D.,” Simonyan wishes to keep Keosayan's spirit alive within her efforts. The show's first episode focuses on the biography of the Soviet actress Valentina Serova, and it aired recently, illustrating the juxtaposition between the onset of personal grief and professional duty.
Simonyan read previously penned poetry by Konstantin Simonov during the first episode, going out of her way to convey her emotions on air. The poem “Wait for Me” resembles not just Keosayan’s situation but also embodies Simonyan’s hope and longing for the supporting figure she has loved for so long.
The couple has shared many public moments of affection and teamwork, making this separation due to health troubles all the more poignant. Both have carved out significant spaces for their voices across the media, with Keosayan well-known for his satire and criticism.
Vigorously cherished by fans, both characters are emblematic of resilience and creativity. While Keosayan's current state might hold uncertainty, Simonyan’s strong stance provides emotional strength to many who watch and read. During these tough times, their ever-growing support circle worked as yet another reminder of the source of community strength amid personal trials.
For now, viewers and supporters are focused on two things: the future of Keosayan and the hope he returns soon to his family and legacy. While Simonyan can only take over the presentation temporarily, her words assure the public of her steadfast belief: “We will wait for you because you will return.”