Richard Cohen, Meredith Vieira‘s husband of 38 years, has died following a decades-long battle with multiple sclerosis.
The “Today” show, where Meredith served as co-anchor between 2006 and 2011, announced Richard’s passing Tuesday morning … confirming Richard — a fellow newsman — had died on Christmas Eve while surrounded by his family.
“Today” co-anchor Savannah Guthrie said Meredith is “in really good spirits” … with Hoda Kotb also revealing the family was happy to get an extra month with Richard when the family became very concerned about his health at Thanksgiving.
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Savannah further praised Meredith for her devotion to Richard … who she said simply “adored Meredith” in return.
Richard’s death caps his 50-year battle with multiple sclerosis, also known as MS … a chronic neurological disorder that impacts the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the nervous system.
Meredith first learned of Richard’s diagnosis on their 2nd date … which she previously said “wasn’t enough” to keep her from pursuing a relationship with the news producer.
However, MS wasn’t the only health hurdle Richard faced in his lifetime — he survived colon cancer, twice.
Richard is survived by Meredith and their 3 adult children … Benjamin, Gabriel, and Lily.
He was 76.
RIP