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Jerry Katzman, a former William Morris president and television packager for series such as “Roseanne” and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” died on Aug. 9. He was 89.
Katzman helped shape modern television with his work in television packaging and bringing series to the screen, contributing to the success of shows such as “The Cosby Show” and “Murphy Brown.” He first joined William Morris in business affairs before rising to the head of worldwide television, then to president and vice chairman.
Also serving as the president of the Hollywood Radio and Television Society, Katzman later taught at UCLA’s School of Theater, Film and Television. In the early 1970s, he worked with his father in film production on projects including Elvis Presley’s “Kissin Cousins” and “Harum Scarum,” as well as Roy Orbison’s “Fastest Guitar Alive” and Peter Noone’s “Hold On!”.
Katzman was born April 21, 1937, in Los Angeles and was married to Carol Sinn for 66 years. “Jerry loved spending time with his kids and grandkids, and together with Carol never missed an opportunity to celebrate every birthday, anniversary, wedding, graduation and holiday,” his obituary reads.
He struggled with Parkinson’s for several years. In addition to his wife Carol, he is survived by his children, Jeff, Jon and Kari; seven grandchildren and a great-granddaughter. Donations may be made to: Jewish Federation in Los Angeles, Cedars Sinai Board of Governors and UCLA Parkinson’s Center: Attention Dr. Jeff Bronstein/Jessica Vrazilek.
Services will be held on Aug. 13 at Hillside Memorial Park, 6001 W. Centinela Ave, Los Angeles, at noon.
