Maureen Reagan: An Appreciation


Wednesday, August 8 saw the untimely passing of Maureen Reagan. When, a few weeks ago, her family announced the gravity of her illness, I realized I wanted to write something about her.


Maureen Reagan
1941-2001

In 1993, from June into November, Maureen Reagan did commentary for us at KCOP, the still 'Very Independent' Channel 13. She was one of a group of people on our air, which included voices as diverse as Ben Stein and Xavier Hermosillo, who were filling in for Bill Press as he stepped up his work with the California Democratic Party.

We saw Maureen once a week in our newsroom; I did broadcast design and news graphics for our 10 PM show, so I got to do some work for her. What is striking about her is both what she did, and what she did not do. She did not wear her last name on her sleeve; she didn't need to. Her accomplishments were her own, her opinions were her own, and her style was her own.

When you looked at her face you saw her dad, certainly, but you recognized that her heritage came with her as she chose to carry it. She was fully present; she did not 'star trip' as many in her orbit might have. She came prepared- always- knowing what she wanted and how much time it should take for it to be done.

In the days just before 'multitasking' became our too-familiar American buzzword, Maureen surely had long since mastered the skill. I've always enjoyed working for folks who know the job and come in prepared, and so I enjoyed working for Maureen Reagan. She was an appreciative client.

I remember her as tall and imposing; she wore wonderful flowing vests, dresses and caftans in socko,'California' colors. She brightened up our then stark white newsroom, and brought the energy level up as well. But it is surprising to take a look, as I did about a month ago, at one of her early air checks. She was nervous. I had forgotten that, and I found it charming. But I do remember she got over the nervousness.

To have spent any amount of time with someone like Maureen Reagan is a privilege. But having the chance to work with her, even just the bit we did, is a reminder of how lightly we can carry even big thoughts, big names, and big responsibilities.

About the Author

Nancy LeMay is a five-time Emmy winning broadcast designer who has worked both in New York and LA, in network and local. She is a teacher and a painter as well. You can reach her through her website, www.Nancylemay.com and by email at NancyLeMayCo@aol.com