Sherri Shepherd is honoring the memory of her dear friend and mentor, Bill Geddie. The former co-host of “The View” paid a heartfelt tribute to Geddie, the co-creator of the show alongside Barbara Walters and one of its executive producers, after news of his passing was announced over the weekend.
During her appearance on the ABC talk show on Monday, Shepherd expressed how Geddie had a profound impact on her life. When he invited her to join “The View” in 2007, she was a single mother, recently divorced, and a stand-up comic with limited knowledge about politics. Nevertheless, Geddie saw potential in her and believed that audiences would connect with her.
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Geddie was a firm mentor for Shepherd, encouraging her to find her voice. She fondly recalled her early days on the show when she made a misstep, unsure whether the Earth was round or flat. But Geddie, being tough yet wise, told her not to apologize for everything and reminded her that “The View” was not about constant apologies but rather engaging discussion.
“The View” announced Geddie’s death through an Instagram post, praising him as a pioneer in television and a beloved member of their family. His role in creating and producing the show for 17 years was invaluable, and “The View” acknowledged that the show wouldn’t have existed without him.
In a separate Instagram post, Shepherd expressed her devastation over Geddie’s passing. She credited him with changing her life because of the belief he had in her. As a mentor and friend, Geddie not only saw potential in Shepherd but also helped her become even better than she imagined. Throughout the first season of her show “Sherri,” Shepherd sought advice and encouragement from him. Geddie’s impact extended beyond the television industry; he was also a loving husband and father at home.
In this time of grief, Sherri Shepherd remembers Bill Geddie with deep affection and gratitude. His belief in her and his mentorship left an indelible mark on her life, making him a cherished and unforgettable figure in the entertainment world.
