David Mills, acclaimed TV writer, dead at 48

Much admired TV writer David Mills, who has been working on the upcoming HBO show Treme, died of a brain anuerysm in New Orleans yesterday.

Less than two weeks ahead of Treme‘s premiere, HBO released a statement addressing Mills’ sudden death:

“HBO is deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our dear friend and colleague David Mills,” said a network statement. “He was a gracious and humble man, and will be sorely missed by those who knew and loved him, as well as those who were aware of his immense talent. David has left us too soon but his brilliant work will live on.”

In addition to his work on Treme, Mills worked on Homicide, NYPD Blue, The Wire and ER. Mills first came to prominence as the writer behind the infamous Sister Souljah interview in which the female rapper said:

“If black people kill black people every day, why not have a week and kill white people?”

The nature of TV writing means some of the people most responsible for the shows you love so dearly don’t get the recognition and press attention some of the stars and other creative staff do. If you’re interested in learning more about David Mills, you can read his hilarious and thought provoking blog, Undercover Black Man. (Mills’ last update was Monday, March 29th.) You can also read this in-depth piece on Mills by journalist friend Alan Sepinwall.