Emmy-winning director John Rich has died at age 86.
John's Emmy Awards were for episodes of ALL IN THE FAMILY and THE DICK VAN DYKE SHOW. From 1971 - 1974 he directed 81 episodes of ALL IN THE FAMILY, including the memorable "Sammy's Visit;" John also served as that series' Producer from 1972 - 1974.
Other series he directed over the years, just scratching the surface of his credits, include episodes of OUR MISS BROOKS, GUNSMOKE, BONANZA, GOMER PYLE USMC, BENSON, THAT GIRL, GILLIGAN'S ISLAND, THE BRADY BUNCH and MY WORLD AND WELCOME TO IT. Rich directed a couple theatrical features starring Elvis Presley, and one with Jerry Lewis. He was also the Executive Producer of MACGYVER.
From circa the mid 1950s to early 1960s, John was married to actress/choreographer Sylvia Lewis, aka 'Helen Blazes' in The Three Stooges' BEDLAM IN PARADISE (1955).
A few TV milestone moments directed by John Rich...
ALL IN THE FAMILY "Sammy's Visit"THE DICK VAN DYKE SHOW "That's My Boy?"GILLIGAN'S ISLAND "Pilot / Two on a Raft"