Lee Rich

Photo of Lee Rich

Biography

After returning to advertising at the Leo Burnett Agency, Rich left to form Lorimar Productions serving as executive producer on the company's successful series: "The Waltons" (CBS, 1972-81), "Eight is Enough" (ABC, 1977-81), "Dallas" (CBS, 1978-91), "Knots Landing" (CBS, 1979-91) as well as numerous TV movies including "The Homecoming" (his first of many projects with Waltons' creator Earl Hamner) and the Emmy-winning "Sybil" (NBC, 1976). …
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Job Title

Producer, Production Management, Other

Born

December 10, 1926

Career Milestones

Became president and co-owner of Lorimar Productions, Culver City CA

Began career as advertising executive

Joined Leo Burnett Agency

Named chairman and CEO, MGM/UA Communications Company

Resigned as senior TV vice president with Benton & Bowles to become president, Mirisch Rich TV

1966

Executive produced first TV series, "Hey, Landlord"

1971

Produced first feature, "The Sporting Club"

1971

Served as executive producer on first TV movies, "The Homecoming" for Lorimar and "Do Not Fold, Spindle or Mutilate" for Lee Rich Productions

1978

First film as executive producer, "Who Is Killing the Great Chefs of Europe?"

1988

Signed three-year deal with Warner Bros., Setting up Lee Rich Productions there (date approximate)

Awards

1973

Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series-Continuing in The Waltons

1973

Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding New Series in The Waltons

1974

Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series in The Waltons

1974

Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Limited Series in The Blue Knight

1975

Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series in The Waltons

1980

Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series in Dallas