Matthew Wright, 'Ellen' Executive Producer, Dies at 52 in 'Unfathomable Tragedy'
Matthew Wright, an executive producer on 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' for 16 years, died at age 52 on October 30 while working remotely in Los Angeles. DeGeneres called him the 'glue' of the show, and a GoFundMe for his funeral surpassed its $50,000 goal after both he and his husband were laid off this summer.
Key points
- Wright died on October 30 in Los Angeles; his family is in New York.
- DeGeneres posted a tearful tribute calling him the 'glue' of the show.
- A GoFundMe for funeral costs surpassed its $50,000 goal by Monday.
- Wright and his husband were both laid off this summer.
- No cause of death was disclosed by any outlet.
Background
Wright served as an executive producer on 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' from 2006 to its 2022 finale, appearing frequently in segments like 'Strong Opinions With Matt.' The show ended in 2022 after a 2020 scandal involving allegations of a toxic work environment.
How outlets are covering it
The Hollywood Reporter and Deadline emphasize the shock of his death and the GoFundMe's rapid success. USA Today notes DeGeneres donated $5,000 and mentioned a planned new project. Page Six highlights DeGeneres's emotional breakdown and her reference to Wright's friendship with late DJ tWitch Boss. All outlets agree on the 'unfathomable tragedy' framing but differ on whether to highlight the GoFundMe's necessity or the emotional tribute.
Why it matters
Wright's death underscores the financial precarity facing some long-time TV professionals post-layoffs, even after 16 years on a major show. It also highlights the personal bonds within the 'Ellen' family, as seen in DeGeneres's tribute and colleagues' reactions.
What to watch
The GoFundMe will continue to raise funds for Wright's funeral and memorial, with leftover money going to a trust for his niece, Sami. DeGeneres may pursue the new project she mentioned with Wright, though no details were given.
- Former ‘Ellen’ Executive Producer Matthew Wright Dies as Ellen DeGeneres Posts Tearful Video Calling Him “The Glue to Our Entire Family” The Hollywood Reporter
- 'Ellen DeGeneres Show' EP Matthew Wright Dies In "Unfathomable Tragedy" Deadline
- Ellen DeGeneres' longtime show producer dies at 52 in 'unfathomable tragedy' USA Today
- Ellen DeGeneres breaks down in tears as she reveals producer has died in 'unfathomable tragedy' Page Six
- 'Ellen Show' EP Matthew Wright Dies at 52, DeGeneres Has Tearful Video Variety
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