Howard Schultz, Dead: ‘Extreme Makeover’ TV Producer Dies During Hawaii Vacation

Howard Schultz, the TV producer best known for his shows Dating Naked and Extreme Makeover, is dead. According to Variety, the reality show great died while on vacation in Hawaii. He was 61 years old. Schultz died after he collapsed and became unresponsive while on the beach.

Once named as one of L.A.’s most influential people by Los Angeles Magazine, Howard Schultz enjoyed a lucrative career in television. He got his start on television in Chicago, where he worked with WLS-TV. From there he moved to Los Angeles, where he produced Real People, Extreme Makeover, Next, and The Moment Of Truth.

According to his bio, Schultz established his television production company, Lighthearted Entertainment, in 1992. In speaking about the inspiration for his TV production company, he stated the following in one of his best quotes.

“I wanted my company founded on the principle of thinking with my heart, instead of my head. Inspiration is like a bolt of light and I wanted my heart to take it from there.”

Executive Vice President Rob LaPlante, of Lighthearted, had this to say about his friend, according to Deadline.

“Beyond Howard’s incredible television acumen existed a man who truly cared for everyone he encountered in a way unique from anyone I have ever met. TV has lost a visionary mind, and we have lost a mentor in life.”

Mike Darnell also remembers Howard Schultz tenacity as a producer,

“Howard was a fearless producer…no matter how moment of truthcrazy or irreverent a concept was, he would go at it full force and with no regrets,” Darnell said. “He was an absolute pleasure to work with, straightforward, funny and someone you could always count on. I am shocked and saddened by the news and my heart goes out to his family.”

Others who have worked with Schultz remember him fondly.

“I worked with him on Las Vegas Law about 9 years ago. He was a unique individual and the company had a small family vibe. Way too young!”

“I have a lot of friends who worked on EMHE. My heart goes out to all of them as well as his family. Way too young!”

TV producer Howard Schultz’ death comes on the heels of the death of actress Christine Cavanaugh, who died at the age 55 on December 22. Her famous voice was heard on Rugrats and Babe, according to the Inquisitr.

[Photo Credit: Twitter]