In the world of television, few have left a mark as indelible as Woody Fraser. At the age of 90, this prolific American producer, renowned for his pioneering work on “The Mike Douglas Show” and “Good Morning America,” has passed away. News of his death was confirmed by his daughter, Stacy, leaving both fans and colleagues reminiscing about his monumental contributions to TV entertainment.
Woody Fraser’s journey into television began in 1960 when he started as a director for NBC. That year marked his fateful introduction to Mike Douglas, leading to the creation of the iconic “The Mike Douglas Show,” which charmed audiences across more than 4000 episodes from 1961 to 1982. This was just the beginning, as Fraser rapidly climbed the industry ranks, becoming a sought-after producer during the vibrant mid-’60s and early-’70s.
Throughout his illustrious career, Fraser, known for his ingenuity and ability to captivate viewers, amassed an impressive portfolio of credits. His work includes prominent shows such as “The Dick Cavett Show,” “The Richard Simmons Show,” “On Trial,” “What Would You Do?”, “The Family Challenge,” “That’s Incredible!”, and “The Home Show.” His adaptability and keen sense of entertainment were evident as he ventured into diverse programming genres.
E.V. Di Massa Jr., a fellow producer and long-time collaborator, paid tribute to Fraser on Facebook, describing him as a ‘producing genius’ and sharing a personal memory of them accepting the Mike Douglas Lifetime Award at the Emmys. This sentiment reflects the deep respect and admiration many in the industry held for Fraser.
In addition to his remarkable work in the early years, Fraser remained active in the television landscape well into later decades, contributing to the launch of shows like “McEnroe” for CNBC and “Huckabee” for Fox News. His enduring impact on the industry is a testament to his creative spirit and dedication.
Woody Fraser leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond his groundbreaking shows. Survived by eight children and three grandchildren, his influence will undoubtedly inspire future generations in television production.
Woody Fraser’s legacy in the entertainment industry is one of creativity and influence. His pioneering shows not only captivated audiences but also shaped the landscape of talk, news, and variety programming. As the television world remembers his work, Fraser’s contributions continue to inspire, reminding us of the power of innovation and vision in storytelling.
Source: Yahoo
