Richard Cohen, the husband of veteran broadcast journalist Meredith Vieira, passed away on Christmas Eve at the age of 76 after living with multiple sclerosis for over 50 years and battling pneumonia. This news, shared on January 7 by the Today show, highlighted the life of a man who defied his health challenges with bravery and resilience.
Filled with love and surrounded by family, Richard Cohen’s death marks the end of a long fight against multiple sclerosis, which he was diagnosed with at the age of 25. He had previously survived two bouts with colon cancer, showing immense strength throughout his trials. Today show host Hoda Kotb reflected on his legacy, stating, “Richard lived for more than 50 years with multiple sclerosis, surviving two cancer diagnoses. He refused to let any of those challenges define him. He was an accomplished journalist, a devoted husband, and father.”
Married for nearly 38 years, Richard and Meredith welcomed three children: sons Benjamin, 36, and Gabriel, 34, and daughter Lily, 32. According to Kotb, the family had gathered at their home for Thanksgiving, unsure of how much longer they would have Richard with them. “Instead, they got a glorious month with their dad,” Kotb shared, emphasizing the bond they shared during his final days.
Richard Cohen was not just Meredith Vieira’s husband; he was also an accomplished professional. He worked extensively as a journalist, serving as a senior producer for CBS News and CNN. His work included writing columns for the New York Times’ Health and Fitness section. His career was marked by significant achievements, earning him three Emmy Awards, yet it was his openness about his struggles and triumphs with his health conditions and the subsequent advocacy for those with chronic illnesses which left a lasting impact.
During their nearly four-decade marriage, Richard was candid about his condition. He famously disclosed to Meredith about his diagnosis on their second date, saying, “I told her about the illness because I sort of learned the hard way to get it on the table. And she really didn’t blink.” This laid the foundation for their strong relationship, which thrived on honesty and mutual respect.
Meredith, who began her career as a news correspondent and later became the original moderator of The View, opted to leave the Today show after five successful years to spend more time with Richard. “Time is one of those weird things. You can never get enough of it, and it just keeps ticking away. And I know I want to spend more of mine with my husband, Richard, and my kids,” she stated when she left the show.
Despite the challenges presented by his health, Richard maintained his humor and spirit throughout. He shared his perspective during various interviews, stating, “I was diagnosed when I was 25 years old and basically told there is no hope. Diagnosed and adios. Nothing much we can do.” These candid remarks not only revealed his struggles but also inspired others facing similar challenges to embrace their circumstances with determination.
Describing his life with Meredith, Savannah Guthrie, also from the Today show, mentioned, “She was such a beautiful and devoted wife to Richard and he adored Meredith. And hanging out with them, they were the most fun, entertaining, irreverent, cool couple you could hang out with.” Such sentiments reflect the essence of their relationship—a partnership rooted deep in affection, resilience, and mutual support.
Meredith often commented on the realities of living with Richard’s chronic illnesses, expressing the emotional weight it carried, yet highlighting the importance of open communication. “It’s good to say it. But we don’t dwell,” she said, illustrating how the couple navigated the highs and lows of life together.
Richard Cohen’s passing is just the culmination of years spent battling more than just his illnesses; he defied odds, wrote multiple books about living with chronic disease, and championed others' battles with their health. His legacy will undoubtedly leave footprints on those he inspired, particularly within the journalism community and family-focused arenas.
The Cohen family will surely be affected deeply by Richard’s absence, yet his life remains a tribute to resilience, love, and authentic dedication to family. Meredith Vieira and their children will carry on his legacy, continuing to embrace life with the same spirit he exemplified throughout his remarkable, yet very challenging, life.