Key Takeaways
- Andy Friendly, a renowned television executive and Emmy-nominated producer, passed away at the age of 74.
- Friendly was the founding producer of the long-running entertainment news series "Entertainment Tonight" and held various executive positions at CNBC, King World Productions, and other organizations.
- He was known for his exceptional leadership, ability to spot talent, and kindness, and is survived by his family, including several grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
- Friendly’s death comes just months after the passing of his wife, actress Patricia Crowley, who died at the age of 91.
- He left behind a legacy in the television industry, including a memoir titled "Willing to Be Lucky: Adventures in Life and Television" published in 2017.
Introduction to Andy Friendly’s Life and Career
Andy Friendly, a television executive and Emmy-nominated producer, passed away on Sunday at the age of 74, as announced by his family on Wednesday. Friendly was a prominent figure in the television industry, with a career spanning several decades. He was the son of CBS News creator Fred Friendly and brother of producer David Friendly. Friendly’s death occurred in his home in Bel-Air, with the cause of death not being revealed at this time.
Early Career and Achievements
Friendly’s career in television began with his role as the founding producer of the long-running entertainment news series "Entertainment Tonight" in 1981. He went on to hold various executive positions, including Vice President of primetime programs at CNBC from 1990 to 1995. During his tenure at CNBC, Friendly produced talk shows for notable figures such as Tom Snyder, Tim Russert, Richard Pryor, Whoopi Goldberg, and Dan Rather. His exceptional leadership and ability to spot talent were widely recognized, and he played a pivotal role in defining CNBC during a period of growth and creativity.
Tributes and Legacy
Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav paid tribute to Friendly, describing him as a "brilliant producer and an exceptional leader" who had an extraordinary ability to nurture ideas and bring out the best in people. Zaslav also highlighted Friendly’s kindness, generosity, and humor, stating that he led with integrity and cared deeply about people. Friendly’s legacy extends beyond his professional accomplishments, and he will be remembered for his unique kindness and integrity. His death has been met with an outpouring of tributes from the television industry, with many colleagues and friends sharing their memories and anecdotes about working with him.
Later Career and Philanthropy
In addition to his work in television, Friendly served as president of programming and production at King World Productions from 1995 to 2001, where he oversaw the production of first-run syndication shows such as "Oprah Winfrey," "Wheel of Fortune," and "Jeopardy!" He also held various other positions, including president of the Hollywood Radio & Television Society and adjunct professor at the USC School of Cinematic Arts, his alma mater. Friendly was also involved in philanthropic work, serving on the Board of Councilors for the Shoah Foundation and the Board of the Friends of the Saban Community Clinic.
Personal Life and Family
Friendly’s personal life was marked by a long and happy marriage to actress Patricia Crowley, who passed away just months before his death at the age of 91. Crowley was a talented actress who starred in the 1960s NBC series "Please Don’t Eat the Daisies." Friendly is survived by his immediate family, including his sister Lisa Friendly and brothers David Friendly, Richard Mark, Michael Mark, Jon Mark, and Ruth Friendly, as well as several grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. His memoir, "Willing to Be Lucky: Adventures in Life and Television," was published in 2017, offering a glimpse into his life and career in the television industry.
Conclusion and Remembrance
Andy Friendly’s passing marks the end of an era in the television industry, and he will be deeply missed by his colleagues, friends, and family. His legacy will continue to be felt through his contributions to the industry, and his memory will be cherished by those who knew him. As the television industry continues to evolve, Friendly’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of exceptional leadership, kindness, and integrity in achieving success and making a lasting impact. His life and career will be remembered as a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a passion for storytelling.
