"Your plastic surgery looks great!"

As many of you know, Brian travelled often for his job in the toy industry. He went to Hong Kong and New York frequently and always seemed to find the “newest” and “best” five star restaurants. Amazingly, all seemed to serve foie gras.

Brian was in New York City for Toy Fair one year (2002?). He was checking in the Double Tree Hotel near Times Square and found himself right in front of TV newscaster Greta Van Susteren who was also checking in. Brian - used to interacting with celebrities - proceeded to talk to her like an old friend. Greta had just moved from CNN to Fox. She had also just had extensive plastic surgery.

Right before Brian was about to check in, he walked to the counter and said:

Brian: “Well, Greta it was a pleasure to meet you and talk to you. “

Greta: “It was nice meeting you.”

Brian: “Oh, by the way, your plastic surgery looks great! I mean really great.”

Greta: “Uh, thanks.”

Brian then checked in. While he was eating a complementary hot chocolate cookie, he realized he did not exactly end the conversation with Greta in the best way. He looked over to her and began to understand that her stony glaze may not be totally due to her recent surgery. Brian wrestled with the idea of apologizing and thought. “Naw, it’s too damn funny of a story” and left her alone.

Again, only Brian could talk to a celebrity and simultaneously charm and insult her without thinking. I mean, would any of us EVER say “your plastic surgery looks great” to a complete stranger or a celebrity?

Brian would and did.

I think of Brian every time I see Greta on the tube. My guess is you will too.