Richard Reisberg dies at 85, leaving a shocking industry secret

Richard S. Reisberg, a seasoned television executive who steered several of the United States’ most influential studios, passed away on September 23 at the age of 85.

His career spanned more than four decades and included leadership roles at Viacom, United Artists, MGM/UA, Reeves Entertainment and Lionsgate Television.

## Background & Career

Reisberg was born in New York City in 1940. After earning a law degree from Yale University, he cut his teeth as a business affairs attorney for ABC, CBS and NBC.

His ability to merge legal precision with creative foresight earned him a fast‑track promotion to Viacom International, where he rose to Senior Vice President before being named President of Viacom Productions in 1972.

During his early years at Viacom, the network was still carving out a distinct identity amid the rapidly expanding cable landscape. Reisberg championed a slate of emerging programs that blended traditional studio formats with experimental storytelling.

Shows such as *The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes* and the pioneering documentary series *Beyond the Blue Horizon* found their footing under his stewardship, setting a tone for Viacom’s future as a producer of both mainstream hits and niche content.

In the mid‑1980s, Reisberg accepted an offer from United Artists Television, serving as its President during a transitional era when studios were beginning to re‑evaluate the balance between scripted dramas and reality‑based programming.

He guided the network through a series of high‑profile mergers, culminating in the formation of MGM/UA Television Productions, where he was appointed President.

In that role, Reisberg oversaw both scripted and unscripted content, shepherding award‑winning series such as *The Late Show with David Letterman* and the cult‑favorite *Twin Peaks* into syndication deals that expanded the company’s global reach.

After a brief stint as President and Chief Operating Officer of Reeves Entertainment—where he expanded the studio’s creative footprint into independent films—Reisberg joined Lionsgate Television in 1997.

As President, he was instrumental in securing the broadcast rights for early‑stage projects that would later become mainstream successes, including *The O.C.* and *Gossip Girl*. He also pioneered a cross‑platform strategy that brought Lionsgate content to emerging digital outlets, positioning the company ahead of the streaming revolution.

Reisberg’s influence extended beyond studio walls. After stepping down from daily operations at Lionsgate, he turned to mediation, becoming an active member of JAMS and teaching mediation courses at Pepperdine School of Law in Malibu.

His approach—balancing creative ambition with business pragmatism—earned him respect among both producers and attorneys alike.

## Legacy & Remembrance

Reisberg is survived by his wife of almost 56 years, Judy, and their children: daughters Jennifer Benson and Stephanie Silvera. He also leaves behind a son‑in‑law, Justin Silvera, and grandchildren Oliver and Tyler Benson, Ella and Layla Silvera. His son‑in‑law, David Benson, predeceased him.

Family members have not disclosed a cause of death.

Industry colleagues have spoken of Reisberg’s mentorship and his uncanny ability to spot talent. “He was the first to sign a then‑unknown writer on a tight budget, and that writer went on to win an Emmy,” said a former executive from Viacom.

Fans of shows he helped greenlight—particularly those who grew up watching *Gossip Girl* in the early 2000s—have posted heartfelt tributes online, .

In tribute to Reisberg’s lifelong dedication to the arts and community, donations may be made in his memory to Alzheimer’s Los Angeles. The family has requested that contributions support research and patient care programs.

Reisberg’s career left an indelible mark on American television production, with his leadership seen at several flagship studios. He was known for championing new talent and steering projects through the shift toward digital media. His legacy endures in the enduring shows he helped launch and in the generations of producers he inspired.