3-29-2020

To those hundreds of you who responded to my email about my dear friend Maria Mercader and her struggle in the ICU, I am heartbroken and so saddened to report that she lost her valiant battle and passed away. What an amazing woman, what a fighter — a three time cancer survivor who set an example for all of us in how to live our own lives. She taught me that every day is a gift and to greet each morning as if every moment of that day might be your last. When Hande and I got married last June, we asked Maria to officiate. She was my first friend at CBS (and always reminded me of it!) Hande and I are not just linked by love and by marriage, but linked with love by and with Maria. A few days ago I asked all of you to think of Maria and to pray for her. And you did…And in one respect, I think your prayers were answered. Maria is no longer in any pain and is at peace. She has left us knowing our never-ending love. And at times like this I am reminded of one of my favorite lines, from the movie “Fried Green Tomatoes,” when Jessica Tandy says to Mary Stuart Masterson that “someone will always be alive as long as you remember them.” Maria Mercader will always be alive, in our heads and in our hearts. Maria, we love you, now and forever.