Stephen Joseph Cannell (; February 5, 1941 – September 30, 2010) was a prolific American television producer, writer, novelist, occasional actor, and founder of Cannell Entertainment (formerly Stephen J. Cannell Productions) and The Cannell Studios. Over a career spanning four decades, Cannell left an indelible mark on the television industry, creating or co-creating numerous iconic TV series from the 1970s to the 1990s.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Stephen Joseph Cannell |
| Occupation | Television Producer, Writer, Novelist, Actor, Founder of Cannell Entertainment and The Cannell Studios |
| Date of Birth | February 5, 1941 |
| Birth Place | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Date of Death | September 30, 2010 |
| Education | University of Oregon, Degree in Journalism |
| Notable Works | "The Rockford Files," "The A-Team," "21 Jump Street," "The Greatest American Hero" |
| Parents | Joseph Knapp Cannell |
| Spouse | Marcia Cannell (married for 46 years) |
| Children | Four |
| Net Worth (2024) | $100 million (at peak) |
| Challenges | Dyslexia |
| Awards | Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series (1978), Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award (2011, posthumously) |
| Philanthropy | Dyslexia Foundation |
| Notable Studios | Cannell Entertainment, The Cannell Studios |
| Height | 6'1" |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
Early Life and Education
Born in Los Angeles, California, Cannell grew up in a creative environment, influenced by his father, Joseph Knapp Cannell, who ran an interior design firm. Cannell’s early life was not without its challenges; he struggled with dyslexia, a condition that made reading and writing difficult. Despite this, Cannell's determination saw him through his education at University of Oregon, where he graduated in 1964 with a degree in journalism.
Breakthrough in Television
Cannell's career in television began humbly as a freelance writer. His big break came when Universal Studios hired him, and he soon began working on the hit series "It Takes a Thief". His talent for storytelling quickly became apparent, and before long, he was creating his own shows.
Iconic Creations
Cannell's first major success came with the creation of "The Rockford Files" (1974-1980), co-created with Roy Huggins. This series not only won critical acclaim but also earned Cannell an Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series in 1978. The show's success set the stage for a prolific career, where he would go on to create or co-create over 40 television series.
Financial Triumphs
Cannell's financial acumen was as sharp as his creative mind. In 1979, he founded Stephen J. Cannell Productions, which allowed him greater creative control and a larger share of the profits. By the mid-1980s, his company was producing five prime-time series simultaneously, a feat that was virtually unheard of at the time. At its peak, Cannell Productions was generating revenues of around $100 million annually.
Notable Works
Among Cannell's most famous works are "The A-Team" (1983-1987), "21 Jump Street" (1987-1991), and "The Greatest American Hero" (1981-1983). These shows not only enjoyed commercial success but also became cultural phenomena, with "The A-Team" alone generating millions in merchandise sales.
Diversification and Publishing
Cannell's creativity wasn't confined to television. He also ventured into novel writing, publishing 16 novels over his lifetime. His debut novel, "The Plan" (1995), was a bestseller. Cannell's success as a novelist further cemented his reputation as a versatile storyteller.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite his success, Cannell faced numerous challenges. His battle with dyslexia was a lifelong struggle, but he used his platform to raise awareness about the condition. In interviews, Cannell often spoke about how he overcame his reading difficulties and encouraged others to persevere.
Legacy and Impact
Cannell's impact on the television industry is immeasurable. His shows have been syndicated worldwide, and many have been adapted into movies. The "21 Jump Street" franchise, for instance, was successfully rebooted into a film series, grossing over $300 million worldwide.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Cannell was also known for his philanthropy. He was actively involved with the Dyslexia Foundation and other charitable organizations. His personal life was marked by a strong family bond; he was married to his high school sweetheart, Marcia Cannell, for 46 years, and they had four children.
Final Years and Legacy
Stephen J Cannell passed away on September 30, 2010, but his legacy lives on. In 2011, the Writers Guild of America posthumously awarded him the Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award for Television Writing Achievement. His contributions to television have inspired countless writers and producers, ensuring that his influence will be felt for generations to come.
FAQS
What happened to Stephen J. Cannell?
Stephen J. Cannell passed away on September 30, 2010, at the age of 69 due to complications associated with melanoma. Despite his death, his legacy continues through his iconic television series and contributions to the industry.
How many shows did Stephen J. Cannell create?
Stephen J. Cannell created or co-created over 40 television series during his career. His work includes popular shows like "The Rockford Files," "The A-Team," and "21 Jump Street," which have left a lasting impact on television.
Who played Dutch Dixon?
Dutch Dixon, a character from the TV series "Renegade," was portrayed by actor Stephen J. Cannell himself. He occasionally acted in his productions, showcasing his versatility beyond writing and producing.
Who was Stephen J. Cannell married to?
Stephen J. Cannell was married to his high school sweetheart, Marcia Cannell. They were married for 46 years and had a strong family bond, raising four children together.
Who created Rockford Files?
"The Rockford Files" was co-created by Stephen J. Cannell and Roy Huggins. The series was a critical success and earned Cannell an Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series in 1978.
What was Stephen J. Cannell's first novel?
Stephen J. Cannell's first novel was "The Plan," published in 1995. It became a bestseller and marked the beginning of his successful career as a novelist, with a total of 16 novels published over his lifetime.
Conclusion
Stephen J Cannell's life was a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and innovation. From his early struggles with dyslexia to his monumental success in television and literature, Cannell's journey is a source of inspiration. His financial successes, coupled with his creative genius, have left an enduring legacy that continues to entertain and inspire millions around the world.
