Meredith Vieira

In addition to her NBC roles, Vieira served as the host of the documentary series Intimate Portrait. The program focused on the lives and achievements of women from various fields such as sports, science, politics, and entertainment. Through interviews with family, friends, and colleagues, the series aimed to offer viewers an in-depth perspective on the challenges and triumphs of its subjects. Vieira expressed pride in lending her voice to a show that celebrated women's stories with respect and depth.

Personal Life and Marriage to Richard Cohen

In 1986, Meredith Vieira married Richard M. Cohen, an accomplished journalist and author. The couple remained married for 38 years, until Cohen's death on December 24, 2024, and had three children. Over the years, their marriage was tested but deepened by personal challenges, particularly Cohen’s long-standing battle with multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition he was diagnosed with at age 25.

Cohen, who was legally blind due to complications from MS, also experienced other health setbacks, including vocal cord issues and limited mobility. Despite these difficulties, Meredith stood by him with unwavering support. Their mutual resilience and transparency were cornerstones of their enduring partnership.

Mutual Support Through Health Challenges

Cohen also survived two bouts of colon cancer, in 1999 and 2000. These experiences reinforced the strong emotional foundation of their marriage. The couple often spoke about the importance of honesty and humor in maintaining a healthy relationship. According to Vieira, their shared sense of humor—expressed in everyday moments ranging from playful teasing to family banter—helped them navigate life’s ups and downs.

Rumors Involving Matt Lauer

Throughout her career, Vieira has occasionally found herself the subject of tabloid speculation. One such instance involved rumors of a relationship between her and fellow TV personality Matt Lauer. The rumors emerged after a series of playful photographs surfaced, including one from Lauer's birthday party and another from a Halloween event where they dressed as Star Wars characters. These images prompted widespread, albeit unfounded, speculation.

Despite the media attention, neither Lauer nor Vieira publicly addressed the rumors. There was no verified evidence suggesting a romantic relationship between them. Over the years, both parties have continued their professional and personal lives without substantiating any of the tabloid claims.