Richard Cohen, the husband of former TODAY anchor Meredith Vieira, passed away on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024, at the age of 76. Cohen battled multiple sclerosis for over 50 years and faced cancer twice during his life.
Cohen and Vieira were married for 38 years and had three children together: Benjamin, Gabriel, and Lily. Cohen’s contributions to journalism are notable; he worked as a producer for CBS News and CNN, receiving an Emmy Award for his excellence.
During a 2018 appearance on TODAY, Cohen shared his diagnosis with multiple sclerosis at the young age of 25, stating, ‘I was diagnosed when I was 25 years old and essentially told there is no hope.’ He reflected on the challenges he faced, saying, ‘Diagnosed and adios. Nothing much we can do.’
Despite the obstacles, Cohen was a vocal advocate for those living with chronic illness, authoring several books and speaking openly about his condition. ‘I think too many people stay closed and don’t tell the truth,’ he expressed in a 2014 interview on TODAY.
Meredith Vieira remembered their second date, where she learned about his condition, stating, ‘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.’ Vieira maintained her support throughout their relationship, emphasizing the importance of family time.
After leaving her role at TODAY in 2011, Vieira explained, ‘Time is one of those weird things. You can never get enough of it, and it just keeps ticking away. And I know that I want to spend more of mine with my husband, Richard, and my kids.’
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects the nervous system, causing a variety of symptoms including muscle weakness, numbness, and balance issues. It is believed to be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.
Although MS is not typically fatal, advancements in treatment have enabled many individuals with the condition to lead fulfilling lives, maintaining a normal life expectancy.
