Stephen J. Cannell Dead at 69

Posted on October 1, 2010

We were extremely sad to hear that Stephen J. Cannell died last night in his Pasadena home, after battling melanoma. A legendary producer, Stephen created such iconic TV shows as 21 Jump Street, The A-Team, Hunter, The Greatest American Hero, The Rockford Files and many, many more.

He was also a bestselling novelist: his next Shane Scully book will be released this month. His family issued the following statement:

"Aside from being a legendary television producer and prolific writer, Stephen was also a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a loyal friend. Mr. Cannell is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 46 years, Marcia, their three children, Tawnia, Chelsea and Cody and three grandchildren. Stephen was a pillar of strength within his family and he touched everyone he met. He will be most deeply missed."

Stephen was a brilliant storyteller with an uncanny ear for dialogue. He loved being a novelist, and especially enjoyed doing book tours so he could meet his readers face to face. He was a generous man who gave his time and support to help those suffering from dyslexia, so they wouldn't have to go through what he did in school before getting a diagnosis. We will really miss him.

The Cannell family has asked that in lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the International Dyslexia Association. You can post your condolences and memories about Stephen on his Facebook Page.