Tom Cherones, the acclaimed producer and director renowned for his work on the iconic television series Seinfeld, has died at the age of 86. Cherones passed away on Monday at his home in Florence, Oregon, following a battle with Alzheimer’s disease, as confirmed by a representative.
Born on September 11, 1939, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Cherones graduated from the University of New Mexico in 1961 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. He later obtained a master’s degree in telecommunications from the University of Alabama in 1966. His early career included four years of service as a lieutenant in the United States Navy.
Career Highlights and Acclaimed Works
During his time as a student at the University of Alabama, Cherones began his journey in educational television, eventually producing and directing programs for WQED in Pittsburgh. In 1975, he moved to Hollywood, securing his first job as a production manager for the soap opera General Hospital.
In 1986, Cherones made his directorial debut with an episode titled “Babes in the Woods” on the CBS comedy My Sister Sam. His major breakthrough came in 1990 when he joined Seinfeld as a director and producer, contributing to a total of 85 episodes during the show’s first five seasons. Cherones received a Directors Guild of America award for directing the iconic episode “The Contest” in 1993, which is frequently listed among the greatest television episodes of all time. He also won an Emmy Award for his role as a producer.
Several episodes directed by Cherones, such as “The Chinese Restaurant” and “The Parking Garage,” are celebrated as standout moments in the series. Additionally, he made a cameo appearance in Seinfeld as the fictional director in “The Pilot.” Cherones departed from the show after its fifth season at the request of Jerry Seinfeld, who sought to introduce a new creative presence. In a 2015 interview with the Television Academy Foundation, Cherones explained, “He was tired of the same thing, I guess. We changed writers almost every season.” His successor as lead director was Andy Ackerman.
Later Endeavors and Legacy
Beyond Seinfeld, Cherones directed 56 episodes of the comedy series NewsRadio and contributed to shows such as Welcome Back, Kotter, Caroline in the City, Annie McGuire, and Ellen. In recognition of his contributions to the television industry, he was inducted into the Alabama Stage and Screen Hall of Fame in 2003.
From 2002 to 2014, Cherones shared his expertise by teaching a film production course at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. In 2012, he ventured into literature with the publication of his first novel, The Hardly Boys, a parody of the classic Hardy Boys series.
Tom Cherones leaves behind a rich legacy in television, remembered not only for his creative contributions but also for his mentorship of aspiring filmmakers. His work continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, ensuring that his influence will endure for years to come.
