In a deeply emotional revelation, Margarita Simonyan, the editor-in-chief of the Russian state-funded channel RT, opened up about her husband Tigran Keosayan's severe health struggles during a recent interview. Keosayan, a director and television host, has been in a coma since experiencing clinical death at the end of 2024, leaving Simonyan to navigate the challenges of both her personal life and her professional responsibilities.
During her appearance on the program "Судьба человека" with Boris Korchevnikov on the Russian channel "Россия," Simonyan expressed her heartache over her husband’s condition. "I was the happiest woman on earth," she said tearfully, recalling how Keosayan would affectionately call her "my beauty." The couple, who have been together for over a decade, share three children: daughters Maryana and Maro, and son Bagrat.
Simonyan revealed that Keosayan has faced serious heart issues for many years. When he was just 43, doctors predicted he would not live more than three years due to his health problems. "Now he is 59, but whether he will celebrate his 60th birthday is unknown," she lamented. Despite the grim prognosis, Simonyan holds onto hope, stating, "People always ask themselves: 'Why me?' And I say, 'Why not? Now it is like this: accept and live.'"
In March 2025, Simonyan made a public plea for the Russian public to pray for her husband's recovery, believing that collective prayer could invoke miracles. "I believe that when many people pray, the Lord can perform even the greatest miracles," she stated, reflecting her desperation for her husband's return to health.
As she shared her story, Simonyan also highlighted the emotional toll on her family, particularly on Keosayan's mother, who lost her eldest son two years prior. Now, she clings to the hope that her youngest son will recover. "At home, he is awaited by children, his mother, and mother-in-law, just as his loving wife is waiting for him," Simonyan said, emphasizing the family's longing for his return.
In a candid moment, Simonyan recounted the support Keosayan provided during her pregnancies, stating, "He would not leave me, even when I had to lie in the hospital to preserve the pregnancies." Her voice quivered with emotion as she reflected on their life together, filled with love and partnership.
Simonyan's revelations come amidst her ongoing responsibilities as a prominent media figure in Russia, where she has been a key voice in state propaganda. Her vulnerability during the interview contrasts sharply with her public persona, showcasing the human side of a woman often seen as a powerful political commentator.
In addition to her personal struggles, Simonyan's comments about her husband's smoking habit have also attracted attention. She noted that Keosayan smokes a lot but is trying to cut back. "You have a sick heart, and you poison yourself," she remarked, expressing her frustration with his inability to quit smoking despite his health issues.
The couple's relationship has been a topic of interest in Russian media, especially given their roles as prominent figures in the Kremlin's media landscape. They only officially registered their relationship in 2022, after being together for over ten years. This delay in formalizing their union has led to speculation about their private lives and the dynamics of their relationship.
As Simonyan continues to navigate her husband's critical condition, she remains a figure of resilience. Her emotional appeals and public statements have drawn support from the Russian public, who are moved by her plight. The couple's story resonates with many who have faced similar health crises, highlighting the universal themes of love, hope, and the struggle against adversity.
In the midst of her personal turmoil, Simonyan has also been active in her professional role, balancing her duties as a media executive with her responsibilities as a mother and wife. Her ability to maintain this balance, even as she grapples with the uncertainty surrounding her husband's health, speaks to her strength and determination.
As the situation unfolds, many are left wondering about the future of Tigran Keosayan and the impact his recovery could have on both his family and the broader media landscape in Russia. Simonyan's heartfelt pleas for support and prayers reflect not only her love for her husband but also the deep connections that exist within families facing health crises.
Ultimately, Margarita Simonyan's story is one of profound love and resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges. As she continues to share her journey, she reminds us all of the fragility of life and the enduring power of hope.
