Key Takeaways
- Andy Friendly, the first producer of Entertainment Tonight, has passed away at the age of 74
- Friendly had a long and distinguished career in television, working as a programming executive for CNBC and King World
- He was Emmy-nominated in 1982 for his work on Entertainment Tonight
- Friendly was also a published author, releasing his memoir "Willing to Be Lucky: Adventures in Life and Television" in 2017
- He is survived by his brother, David T. Friendly, a Hollywood producer, and several other siblings
Introduction to Andy Friendly’s Life and Career
Andy Friendly, a renowned television producer and son of legendary CBS newsman Fred Friendly, has passed away at the age of 74. His death was announced by his family and was first reported by The Hollywood Reporter. Friendly’s wife, actress Patricia Crowley, had passed away just a few months prior in September at the age of 91. His brother, David T. Friendly, is a Hollywood producer known for his work on films like "Little Miss Sunshine".
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Friendly launched his career in television in the early 1970s as a junior researcher at WNBC-TV in New York. It was during this time that he met anchorman Tom Snyder, who would later host the late-night show "Tomorrow" that Friendly would produce. This marked the beginning of a successful career in television production, which would eventually lead to Friendly becoming the first producer of the long-running syndicated show "Entertainment Tonight". His work on the show earned him an Emmy nomination in 1982, a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.
Notable Roles and Achievements
In addition to his work on "Entertainment Tonight", Friendly served as a programming executive for CNBC and King World. At CNBC, he worked on talk shows hosted by notable figures like Tom Snyder and Tim Russert. He also held the position of vice president of primetime programs at CNBC from 1990 to 1995. From 1995 to 2001, Friendly was the president of programming and production at King World Productions. His extensive experience and expertise in television production made him a respected figure in the industry.
Other Ventures and Philanthropic Efforts
Friendly’s contributions to the television industry were not limited to his work as a producer and executive. He also served as the president of the Hollywood Radio & Television Society and as an adjunct professor at the USC School of Cinematic Arts. Furthermore, he was a member of the boards of the USC Shoah Foundation and the Saban Community Clinic. These roles demonstrate Friendly’s commitment to giving back to his community and sharing his knowledge with the next generation of television professionals.
Personal Life and Legacy
In 2017, Friendly published his memoir, "Willing to Be Lucky: Adventures in Life and Television", which offers a glimpse into his life and career. The book provides insight into the experiences and lessons that shaped him into the successful producer and executive he became. Friendly is survived by his brother, David, and several other siblings, including Lisa, Richard, Michael, and Jon. His passing marks the end of an era in the television industry, but his legacy will live on through the many shows and programs he worked on during his career.
Conclusion and Remembrance
Andy Friendly’s passing is a loss for the television industry, but his contributions and achievements will not be forgotten. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a passion for storytelling and a commitment to excellence, which earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of his audience. As the industry continues to evolve, Friendly’s legacy will serve as a reminder of the importance of dedication, hard work, and a willingness to take risks. His story will continue to inspire future generations of television professionals, and his memory will be cherished by those who knew him and worked with him throughout his career.