Katy Perry Instagram – It’s taken me a little while to make this post…something about posting it makes it all feel, final… and even though Martin wasn’t particularly fond of social media and its sensationalism, I must respectfully take a moment and speak on how special he was and is to me. I say is because I personally don’t believe that anyone “dies”; they simply move on to the next dimension. They aren’t here anymore, but are now EVERYWHERE ✨ Martin Kirkup was one of my managers at Direct Management for almost 20 years. He was the bulldog of our group – the one who always said, “Show me the data, the P&L, the science, the facts!” If all else failed, he would just say, “That’s ridiculous!” or some other cheeky, witty, eloquent one-liner with an English accent and all would be convinced. Martin was one of my protectors. He was vigilant about getting me what I deserved and celebrated the headstrong female I am. I have been so fortunate to have an INCREDIBLE team by my side for almost 20 years, before I had (as my father from Memphis would say) a pot to pee in or a window to throw it from! Martin, along with all of my managers, have literally fought day in and day out for my voice to be heard, and I have SO much pride, respect and admiration for my team at Direct Management. Martin and I got to climb so many wonderful professional mountains and have thoroughly enjoyed the views together – traveling, tasting, learning, celebrating, leaning into the fullness and beauty of life. Martin left this dimension with no stones unturned! Three days before he passed, he finally got to hear some of what I have been working on and the joy and love that it holds. I could tell he was excited for the future, and I was so glad I had that last moment to make him proud in my own little way. We didn’t get to physically say goodbye, but I know he knows how much respect and admiration I have for him, and his hearty chuckles and wicked retorts continue to echo through my mind. (Continued👇🏻)