Stephen J. Cannell (1941–2010)

Stephen J. Cannell (1941–2010)

From Nytimes.com, ((Stephen J. Cannell, one of television’s most prolific writers and series creators, whose work encompassed the “The Rockford Files” and “Wiseguy” to “The A-Team” and “The Greatest American Hero,” died Thursday at his home in Pasadena, Calif. He was 69. ))

Cannell was and still is one of the most important TV producers/writers/creators of modern TV. Between Cannell, Glen A. Larson and Aaron Spelling, these three owned the live action TV shows landscape from the mid 70s to the late 90s.  You had to go through these three producers to get anything created back then.  I fondly remember Cannell’s shows because of his catchy logo at the end of each show. 

Cannell was important because he wrote and produced over 60 TV shows that are important pop culture icons in my generation’s memories.  Hell, Family Guy wouldn’t have half its jokes if it weren’t for Cannell’s shows. 

Most people remember one of his biggest his in the form of The A-Team.  I’ve stated before how much I loved this show.  He was also listed in the credits of the remake of The A-Team.

And, many of the action movies or detective shows today were heavily influenced by Cannell’s work.  He will certainly be missed.

Man, I was a little kid when I first watched those famous Cannell productions logos.