Renowned TV producer and director Tom Cherones has passed away at the age of 86. His death was confirmed by a family spokesperson on January 5, citing complications from Alzheimer's disease.
Cherones is best known for his work as a key member of the "Seinfeld" production team, having directed or produced 81 of the show's first 86 episodes during its initial five-year run. He began with a notable directing credit in the second episode, "The Stakeout," which aired in May 1990. His visual approach to shooting multi-camera scenes gave "Seinfeld" a more cinematic feel compared to traditional sitcom aesthetics.
One memorable moment from Cherones' time on "Seinfeld" was his cameo appearance as the director himself in the fourth-season episode "The Pilot." He also showcased his versatility by directing some of the show's most experimental episodes, including "The Chinese Restaurant," "The Parking Garage," and "The Contest."
Cherones received widespread recognition for his work on "Seinfeld," with six Emmy nominations and a coveted award for outstanding comedy series in 1993. He also took home a DGA Award and Golden Globe for the sitcom.
Born on September 11, 1939, Cherones began his career in journalism before joining the U.S. Navy from 1965 to 1967. After completing his education at the University of New Mexico and the University of Alabama, he worked as a production manager on various TV shows, including "General Hospital" and "Welcome Back, Kotter." He later transitioned into independent producing and directed or produced several programs and series episodes.
In addition to his work on "Seinfeld," Cherones also produced and directed episodes for other notable TV shows like "Caroline in the City," "NewsRadio," "Ellen," "Boston Common," and "Desperate Housewives." After teaching a free television production class at his alma mater, the University of Alabama, for 12 years, he continued to work behind the scenes until his passing.
Cherones is best known for his work as a key member of the "Seinfeld" production team, having directed or produced 81 of the show's first 86 episodes during its initial five-year run. He began with a notable directing credit in the second episode, "The Stakeout," which aired in May 1990. His visual approach to shooting multi-camera scenes gave "Seinfeld" a more cinematic feel compared to traditional sitcom aesthetics.
One memorable moment from Cherones' time on "Seinfeld" was his cameo appearance as the director himself in the fourth-season episode "The Pilot." He also showcased his versatility by directing some of the show's most experimental episodes, including "The Chinese Restaurant," "The Parking Garage," and "The Contest."
Cherones received widespread recognition for his work on "Seinfeld," with six Emmy nominations and a coveted award for outstanding comedy series in 1993. He also took home a DGA Award and Golden Globe for the sitcom.
Born on September 11, 1939, Cherones began his career in journalism before joining the U.S. Navy from 1965 to 1967. After completing his education at the University of New Mexico and the University of Alabama, he worked as a production manager on various TV shows, including "General Hospital" and "Welcome Back, Kotter." He later transitioned into independent producing and directed or produced several programs and series episodes.
In addition to his work on "Seinfeld," Cherones also produced and directed episodes for other notable TV shows like "Caroline in the City," "NewsRadio," "Ellen," "Boston Common," and "Desperate Housewives." After teaching a free television production class at his alma mater, the University of Alabama, for 12 years, he continued to work behind the scenes until his passing.
! His work on Seinfeld is still iconic to this day and it's crazy to think about how many episodes of that show he directed or produced. The way he brought visual style to those multi-camera scenes was so refreshing, especially back in the 90s when sitcoms were just starting to get more interesting. I feel bad for his health struggles with Alzheimer's disease, but at least we got to see his genius shine through on screen all those times 
Just heard about Tom Cherones' passing... what a legend in the TV industry! I mean, who wouldn't love watching Seinfeld with that cinematic feel? 
The way he handled multi-camera scenes was pure genius, IMO 
. Not to forget those iconic cameos and experimental episodes - "The Chinese Restaurant" still gives me chills 
. His work on other shows like Caroline in the City and Desperate Housewives is also so underrated... Cherones left an indelible mark on TV comedy 
... I mean, what's the point of being sad when we're all just going to end up like him eventually? Alzheimer's disease is a total drag 
. On the other hand, 86 years old is actually pretty impressive - it means he got to live a super long life and make an impact on so many people 
.
But seriously, his ability to balance comedy with drama was genius. And that cameo episode of himself directing the pilot? Genius! Or was it a bit too meta? 
Either way, it's still a memorable moment in TV history.
. What's next, huh?
. six emmys and all that? that's insane. i remember watching seinfeld with my friends back in the day, and we always talked about how cool it was that tom directed so many episodes. what i dont get is why there isnt more recognition for tv producers like him who put in the work behind the scenes 
anyway, i'm sure his legacy lives on through his work and the impact he had on so many people's lives 
anyway, it's sad he died from alzheimers, not something more adventurous like getting into a car crash or something lol. and 81 episodes out of 86? that's just a bunch of hype if you ask me... i mean, what's the big deal about multi-camera scenes? they're just so... predictable 
the way he visualized multi-camera scenes was totally game changing for sitcoms and inspired a whole new generation of directors and producers 
. And can you believe he was still working behind the scenes at 86? That's some dedication right there 
. I wish more of our profs were as experienced and skilled as him when they started out, that's for sure 
. He must've been an awesome teacher though, considering he taught free classes at his alma mater for 12 years 
. Now, I just wonder if we'll ever get to see what it's like to work on a show with someone who directed or produced so many iconic episodes of "Seinfeld" 
Cherones might not be as visible now, but his impact is still there, especially with shows like Seinfeld which are still widely popular 
just heard about Tom Cherones' passing... what a legend! I'm still loving those iconic Seinfeld episodes 
i wonder if anyone will remember his work as much when they're not watching Seinfeld but have seen all the episodes... do you think that's possible?