Top television producer-writer Zack Estrin suddenly passed away on September 23 in Hermosa Beach. He was best recognised for his work as executive producer/showrunner of Lost in Space and co-executive producer of Prison Break. He was 51. Estrin, who was in good health, collapsed while jogging on the beach and later passed away from probable cardiac arrest. Up until an autopsy, the precise cause of death is unknown.
“Zack Estrin was our everything,” his family said in a statement. “The best husband, father, son, and friend. He loved to make everyone happy. He loved to make everyone laugh. He loved being a writer/producer and being a part of creating these shows that people enjoyed. But above all, he loved his family and friends. Thank you all for being a part of his life and ours.”
Estrin, who was reared in Brooklyn, New York, and was born in Woodland, California, began his career in entertainment after graduating from USC as a producer on movies including O, a modern-day interpretation of Shakespeare’s Othello, and Stranger Than Fiction. After that, he switched to television, beginning a writing career that would eventually propel him to the top of the showrunner hierarchy. His early credits included cult classic Tru Calling in addition to hits Charmed and Dawson’s Creek.
“Zack was our client for nearly 25 years,” WME president Ari Greenburg said in a statement. “He had a tremendously successful career and mentored so many writers. We are so proud of all his accomplishments and feel blessed to have called him a friend.”
Estrin cooperated closely with Matt Thunell, VP of programming at Netflix, according to a release, he said: “Zack was a beloved writer, producer, and partner, whose work taught us to seek adventure and trust in the family. His vision and passion will be greatly missed,”.
The remainder of Estrin’s family—mother Patricia Estrin, father Jonathan Estrin, sister Amelia Burstyn, stepbrother Dylan Arrants, stepsisters Julie List and Laura Humphrey—remains, as do his wife Kari Estrin, kids Charlotte Estrin and Chloe Estrin, his canines Molly and Lt. Judy Hopps.
The Zack Estrin USC Scholarship Fund is the family’s preferred charity in lieu of flowers. Send checks to PNG LLC at 11400 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 590, Los Angeles, CA 90064.
