Thomas W. Sarnoff, a longtime NBC executive who went on to hold leadership roles at the Television Academy, died on June 4. He was 96.
From 1965 to 1977, Sarnoff served as staff executive vice president, West Coast, and president of NBC Entertainment Corporation. During his time there, Sarnoff negotiated production deals with all-star talent such as Bob Hope and Colonel Tom Parker for many of Elvis Presley’s television specials, as well as spearheaded the contracts for NBC’s Burbank Studios. He was also credited with the production of worldwide touring family acts in partnership with Walt Disney such as “Peter Pan” and “Disney on Parade.”
Sarnoff then founded his own company, Sarnoff International Enterprises Inc., where he produced the “Yabba Dabba Doo” live arena tour centered around beloved Hanna-Barbera characters. Sarnoff also revived the iconic Gumby character for a 1987 half-hour series and executive produced three “Bonanza” movies.
Beyond his day job, Sarnoff...
From 1965 to 1977, Sarnoff served as staff executive vice president, West Coast, and president of NBC Entertainment Corporation. During his time there, Sarnoff negotiated production deals with all-star talent such as Bob Hope and Colonel Tom Parker for many of Elvis Presley’s television specials, as well as spearheaded the contracts for NBC’s Burbank Studios. He was also credited with the production of worldwide touring family acts in partnership with Walt Disney such as “Peter Pan” and “Disney on Parade.”
Sarnoff then founded his own company, Sarnoff International Enterprises Inc., where he produced the “Yabba Dabba Doo” live arena tour centered around beloved Hanna-Barbera characters. Sarnoff also revived the iconic Gumby character for a 1987 half-hour series and executive produced three “Bonanza” movies.
Beyond his day job, Sarnoff...
- 6/9/2023
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.