Dr. Jon LaPook, the son-in-law of Norman Lear, reflects on the last moments of the iconic TV producer: “He was one of my closest companions.”
Norman Lear,
The iconic TV producer responsible for pioneering shows like “The Jeffersons” and “All in the Family” passed away at his residence in Los Angeles on Tuesday due to natural causes, with his family by his side.
During Lear’s last moments, his son-in-law, Dr. Jon LaPook, who is also the chief medical correspondent for CBS News, shared that the family came together at his bedside to honor and remember his life. They did so by singing songs from his beloved musical “Les Misérables” and themes from the TV shows he created.
While the song “Movin’ On Up” from “The Jeffersons” was being performed, LaPook, who was also Lear’s physician, truly experienced the significance of the moment.
In the past, the 101-year-old was known for his “engaged curiosity,” which characterized his interactions with individuals from various backgrounds, regardless of their fame, according to LaPook.
As both Lear’s physician and relative, LaPook made it his priority to ensure a tranquil passing for Lear, striving for a painless and affectionate “soft landing”.
LaPook expressed his thoughts on how he would want to pass away at the age of 101, surrounded by loved ones, singing and laughing, and without any pain. He feels content that this is exactly how it happened.
“Dr. LaPook reminisced about the more than four decades of friendship and education he shared with Lear, who was one of his closest friends,” stated Dr. LaPook.
LaPook has been greatly impacted by Lear’s belief in the concept of “over and next.”
“I hear my own voice through him. Once something is finished, it is truly finished and we move on to the next…it’s the ultimate embodiment of living in the present, according to LaPook.” And that is one of the major takeaways I have learned from him throughout our years together – the importance of cherishing the present moment.
Lear, who began his career as a radio and television writer after World War II, created a series of popular shows in the 1970s that became defining moments for a generation. These include “All in the Family,” “Maude,” and “One Day at a Time.”
To honor Lear’s impact on television, CBS, ABC, NBC, Fox, and The CW aired a commemorative card on Wednesday evening as a joint tribute, which is a rare occurrence among the major broadcast networks.
In 2019, Norman Lear discussed his legacy in a conversation with his daughter, Kate Lear, and Dr. LaPook.
Source: cbsnews.com