Howard Schultz, a prolific reality TV producer on such hits as Extreme Makeover and Dating Naked, has died. He was 61.
His publicist confirmed the news to the Hollywood Reporter. Schultz died unexpectedly during a vacation in Hawaii on Monday. A cause of death has not been released.
Schultz founded Lighthearted Entertainment in 1992. He went on to executive produce ABC’s Extreme Makeover, MTV’s NEXT! and Fox’s The Moment of Truth. One of his first big hits was NBC’s Real People during the 1980s and also worked on Fox’s Studs.
“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,” Lighthearted Executive VP Rob LaPlante told TheWrap.
Among Lighthearted’s current hits is Vh1’s Dating Naked, which was recently renewed for a second season, and MTV’s Are You The One?, which will also get a second season.
“VH1 is heartbroken to hear of Howard’s passing. Howard was a wonderful man, a true partner and a visionary producer. We will miss him,” Vh1 said.