Television producer Howard Schultz died unexpectedly on Monday while vacationing with his family in Hawaii. He was 61.
The longtime executive founded Lighthearted Entertainment in 1992 and was the creator of ABC’s hit unscripted series “Extreme Makeover,” which he served as executive producer on for several seasons.
Schultz served as the CEO of Lighthearted Entertainment, having developed and executive produced several popular series for the company including MTV’s “Are You the One,” VH1’s “Dating Naked” and VH1’s “Bye Felicia.” He also served as executive producer on Fox shows “Studs” and “The Moment of Truth,” and MTV’s “Next!”
In December, he named Executive Vice President, Rob LaPlante and Vice President, Jeff Spangler co-owners of Lighthearted. The two executives will continue to run Lighthearted in Schultz’s absence.
“Beyond Howard’s incredible television acumen existed a man who truly cared for everyone he encountered in a way unique from anyone I have ever met. TV has lost a visionary mind, and we have lost a mentor in life,” Rob LaPlante said in a statement obtained by TheWrap.
Details of his memorial services are still pending.
Howard Schultz was 61.