Richard S. Reisberg, Veteran TV Executive at Viacom, MGM/UA & Lionsgate, Dies at 85

Richard S. Reisberg, a distinguished figure in the television industry, passed away on September 23 at the age of 85. His family confirmed the news to Deadline, though the cause of his death was not publicly disclosed. Reisberg's career was marked by significant executive roles at prominent production and distribution companies, including Viacom Productions, UA TV, MGM/UA TV Productions, and Lionsgate TV, where he played a crucial part in shaping television content over several decades.

Reisberg's professional foundation was built upon his legal education, having earned a law degree. This academic background proved invaluable as he commenced his career in business affairs at major broadcasting networks ABC and CBS. These early roles provided him with a deep understanding of the legal, financial, and contractual intricacies that underpin the television business, from network programming to syndication deals. This experience in business affairs at the network level offered him a comprehensive perspective on the industry's operational dynamics.

His career trajectory then led him to senior executive positions within television production. At Viacom Productions, a division of Viacom International (later to become CBS Corporation and ViacomCBS, now Paramount Global), Reisberg was involved in the strategic and business aspects of producing television series and films. Following his tenure at Viacom, he moved to UA TV, the television arm of United Artists, and subsequently to MGM/UA TV Productions. During this period, both MGM and United Artists were significant forces in Hollywood, and Reisberg's contributions were instrumental in navigating the competitive landscape of television syndication and development. He was part of the executive teams responsible for managing the business operations and strategic growth of these storied studios.

Later in his career, Reisberg lent his expertise to Lionsgate TV, the television production and distribution arm of Lionsgate Entertainment. Lionsgate, a company that has grown significantly since its founding in the 1990s, is known for its diverse portfolio of film and television content. Reisberg's involvement with Lionsgate TV further underscored his adaptability and enduring relevance in an industry characterized by constant evolution and the rise of new media conglomerates. Throughout his extensive career, Reisberg's legal acumen and business foresight were critical in contract negotiations, intellectual property management, and the overall financial architecture of television production and distribution, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.