Jim Paratore, prominent TV executive, dies at 58

Jim Paratore, prominent TV executive, dies at 58

Jim Paratore, a well-regarded televison producer and executive, died Tuesday after suffering a heart attack while cycling in France.

Paratore, 58, spent much of his career atWarner Bros.Television and was still associated with the Burbank studio, where his production outlet paraMedia had an exclusive deal.

“TheWarner Bros.Television family has lost an incredibly talented and creative friend and colleague in Jim,” said Bruce Rosenblum, president,Warner Bros.Television Group.  “He has left an indelible mark not only on our company’s success but on each of us who worked with him during the past 26 years. Jim had a passion for life, both inside and outside the entertainment industry, and he will truly be missed.”

Paratore was president of Telepictures, a production arm of Warner Bros. Television, from 1992 through 2006. During that time he was heavily involved with the creation and launching of"The Ellen DeGeneres Show,""The Rosie O'Donnell Show" and "The Bachelor." He continued as an executive producer of "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" after leaving Telepictures. 

Prior to joining Telepictures, Paratore worked in local television as a programming director at several Florida stations.

Paratore is survived by his wife, Jill Wickert, and his daughter, Martinique.

An earlier version of this post mistakenly said Paratore was 59 at the time of his death.