12/07/2023
On July 19th of 2022 I had the honor to mix and record sound for an interview with Norman Lear commemorating his 100th birthday and his prolific career for a special episode of Entertainment Tonight. He was kind, friendly, funny and welcoming to all of us on the crew. That says a lot about a person of his elevated stature, especially due to the fact that we filmed the interview during the height of Covid, when we were all adhering to strict safety protocols, wearing masks and being very careful. He was an affable host, to say the least, who made all our worries about covid slip away as soon as we entered his office and started rolling cameras and audio.
One thing I’ll never forget was at the end of the interview he stayed after in his office and talked with us while we wrapped our gear. When we were finished and getting ready to leave, I discreetly approached him and told him how much of an honor and a privilege it was for me to meet him and to mix the sound for his momentous interview. He smiled and thanked me. I then asked him if he would mind if we get a picture together? He then said to me: “sure, I’ll get a picture with you, but only on one condition.” I said, “ok, what’s that?” He smiled again and then said: “I’ll only take a picture with you if you take that silly mask off so we can see your face.” We both laughed. I immediately obliged by taking my mask off as I handed my phone to his assistant to snap this picture of us. What a moment that was. His warm disposition, his wit and charm at age of 100 were so clear, disarming, extraordinary and infectious. Just as infectious as his absolutely prolific career.
Rest In Peace, Norman Lear. I can truly say my life became better the day I met and worked with you. Thank you. God speed, good sir.
