Richard Cohen, an accomplished journalist and the beloved husband of Meredith Vieira, has died at the age of 76. His passing marks the end of a remarkable 50-year battle with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Cohen passed away on Christmas Eve, surrounded by his closest family members, according to a heartfelt announcement made by NBC’s Today show Tuesday morning. Vieira, a former co-anchor on Today from 2006 to 2011, has expressed gratitude for the love and support surrounding her during this time.

“Meredith is in really good spirits, given the circumstances,” shared Savannah Guthrie on air, adding, “Richard simply adored Meredith, and she stood by him every step of the way.”

Co-anchor Hoda Kotb revealed the family had grown increasingly concerned about Cohen’s health around Thanksgiving. “They were grateful for the extra time they had with him, even as they knew this moment was near,” Hoda said.

A Life of Resilience and Love

Cohen’s journey with MS began at just 25 years old, a diagnosis he shared with Vieira during their second date. “I knew then what life might bring,” Vieira once said in an interview. “But it wasn’t enough to keep me from him.”

MS, a chronic neurological disease, affects the brain and spinal cord, often leading to physical and cognitive challenges. Despite these obstacles, Cohen lived an extraordinary life, balancing his career as a producer, author, and journalist with his health struggles.

Cohen’s resilience was further tested when he survived colon cancer not once but twice. Yet, through it all, he remained a pillar of strength for his family.

A Devoted Family Man

Cohen is survived by his wife of 38 years, Meredith, and their three children: Benjamin, Gabriel, and Lily.

In a 2018 interview, Vieira described Cohen as “the bravest person” she had ever known. “He faced life head-on, no matter what was thrown his way,” she said.

His legacy as a journalist and author includes works like Blindsided: Lifting a Life Above Illness: A Reluctant Memoir, where he detailed his journey with MS, offering inspiration to countless others.

Remembering Richard Cohen

Tributes have poured in from colleagues and friends who remember Cohen not just for his professional accomplishments but for his unwavering love and devotion to his family.

“Richard Cohen embodied courage and grace,” Guthrie said. “His story reminds us of the strength of the human spirit.”

Cohen’s family has asked for privacy during this time, while expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support from friends, fans, and the media.

At 76, Richard Cohen’s life was a testament to resilience, love, and the power of hope.