“L.A. Law” couple speak tonight at Beth El about his memoir

December 18, 2009
by Susie Pender

Acclaimed actor and author Michael Tucker, known for his work on the stage, in films and on television (“L.A. Law”), was born into a large, closely-connected Jewish family. According to his recently published memoir, “Family Meals: Coming Together to Care for an Aging Parent,” his parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins were a constant presence when he was growing up. Life very much revolved around this extended family.

But for the family he created with his Emmy-award nominated wife, Jill Eikenberry, he opted for a more “American” model, he explains in his book. He and Eikenberry pursued their careers. Their grown children live on separate coasts, carving out their own lives. They all get together when they can.

Just when Tucker and Eikenberry were settling into retirement in their 350-year old farmhouse in Italy’s Umbria province, Eikenberry’s mother, Lora, was widowed by the death of her second husband and needed the couple’s help in Santa Barbara to sort out her future. Widowhood was quickly followed by a rapid decline into dementia. Thus begins

Michael Tucker’s “Family Meals,” which explores the meaning of family and examines the sacrifices we make for the people we love.

Tucker and Eikenberry, will discuss “Family Meals” at the Shabbat service tonight at Temple Beth El at 8:00 p.m. The public is welcome to attend. Temple Beth El is located at 220 S. Bedford Road, Chappaqua, New York.