Michael King, Producer of ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show,’ Dead at 67

Michael King, the producer behind syndicated giants such as “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and “Dr. Phil,” has died at the age of 67, according to multiple media reports.

King died after contracting an infection while visiting his son in France, according to TMZ. After returning home, he was admitted to Cedars Sinai Medical Center, and underwent treatment for pneumonia, but his condition deteriorated.

King was removed from life support on Wednesday, according to TMZ, and died several hours later.

His King World Productions was one of television’s most successful production companies and syndicators. In addition to “Oprah” and “Dr. Phil,” the company was also involved with “The Geraldo Rivera Show,” “The Merv Griffin Show” and “Rachael Ray.” Acquired by CBS in 2000, King Word was incorporated into CBS Television Distribution in 2007.

Founded in 1964 by Charles King, King World Productions made its initial splash by distributing Hal Roach’s Our Gang short films. When the elder King died in 1973, his children, including sons Michael and Roger, assumed control of the company.

Roger King died in 2007.

King World’s other successes included the game shows “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune,” as well as the magazine show “Inside Edition.”

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