( 4UMF NEWS ) TMZ Co-Founder Dead At 58:
Jim Paratore, the producer who championed Ellen DeGeneres’ transition to daytime television despite industry-wide skepticism that an openly gay host could carry the show, died Tuesday of an apparent heart attack during a cycling vacation in France.
He was 58.
“My friend, producer and champion Jim Paratore died today,” DeGeneres tweeted He gave me a chance when no one else would. I love you, Jim.”
As president of TelePictures Productions, Paratore later revolutionized the gossip news business, co-founding TMZ in 2006. Before that, the veteran producer was responsible for a number of high-profile hits that dominated America’s television hits.
Among his biggest successes, in addition to “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” include: “Extra,” “The People’s Court,” “The Rosie O’Donnell Show” and “The Bachelor” franchise.
“He has left an indelible mark not only on our company’s success but on each of us who worked with him during the past 26 years,” Warner Bros. Television Group President Bruce Rosenblum told Reuters. “Jim had a passion for life, both inside and outside the entertainment industry, and he will truly be missed.”
He is survived by a wife and daughter.
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- Jim Paratore dies at 58 (variety.com)
- Jim Paratore, Founder Of TMZ, Dies At 58 (inquisitr.com)
- TMZ co-founder Jim Paratore dies (thestar.com)
