Russell Morash, TV producer who revolutionized DIY television, dies at 88
Russell Morash, the "father of how-to television," transformed Julia Child and "This Old House" into enduring TV successes.
Russell Morash, a television producer and director known for his contribution to transforming instructional television, passed away on June 19 at the age of 88 in Concord, Mass. His wife, Marian Morash, confirmed that the cause of death was a brain hemorrhage.
Russell Morash was recognized as the “father of how-to television” and was honored with a lifetime achievement Emmy Award in 2014 by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. His pioneering work at the Boston PBS station WGBH led to the creation of influential instructional shows that left a lasting impact on television.
Transforming American Culinary Culture
One of Morash’s notable contributions was as the director and producer of “The French Chef,” which premiered in 1963. This show propelled cookbook author Julia Child to nationwide fame, revolutionizing the perception of food and introducing a distinct American approach to French cooking.
Morash's impact extended beyond the culinary world with the launch of “This Old House” in 1979, which quickly became a beloved and enduring television series. The show's success continued for 45 years, and as of last year, it had collectively garnered 20 Emmy Awards and 119 Emmy nominations alongside its sister show, “Ask This Old House.”
Share news