Cramer on Mark Haines: "It Was an Honor to be Next to Him"

CNBC anchors from across the network are reflecting on the life of Mark Haines, who passed away yesterday evening. Jim Cramer was particularly emotional this morning as he spoke about his former colleague. “Mark was…he didn't buy into anything,” Cramer said. “In this business, not buying into anything is the best way to approach it for the people at home.” At one point, Cramer said that he e-mailed Haines and said that he thought he was ridiculous. “And he said, ‘If you think I'm ridiculous, come on the show.'” Cramer added that in person people were often scared of Haines “because he owned it.” “It was an honor, always an honor to be next to him,” Cramer said. “He had seen everything and understood the world. He just had a grasp of everything.” Despite his lack of interest in Facebook and Twitter, many CNBC viewers are using social media to show their support. “Mark Haines was the Marlon Brando of business news,” prettybirdsmash wrote. “Completely authentic.” Haines was famous not only for his expert reporting but for his no-holds-barred commentary, whether the topic was something serious or something as lighthearted as the new Superman. “The new Superman is being played by a [British actor],” he said. “Superman stands for truth, justice, and the American way. Not truth, justice, and fish & chips.” Earlier this month, Haines showed his softer side while saying goodbye to his former co-anchor, Erin Burnett. “Coming to work for the last five and a half years has been an absolute joy. You are the best,” he said. “The absolute best. We wish you the best of luck. We're gonna miss you a lot. I'm gonna go home and cry.”