Edward L. Rissien Cause of Death

American film producer, Edward L. Rissien has been reported dead. He died of natural causes on April 8, 2023, at age 98.

His nephew, Michael Zimberg, who is also an Emmy-nominated director, reported his death.

“Eddie was a well-respected man who had beautiful taste in material. He was always looking for something that would make a difference,” Zimberg shared.

Born on October 20, 1924, Edward L. Rissien began his career in entertainment in Summer Stock in New York and Winter Stock in Palm Beach Florida.

He served as an assistant stage manager on Broadway on South Pacific and stage manager on Midsummer. In 1954, he went on to work on the Mark Stevens series Big Town when he moved to Hollywood.

Rissien established Harry Belafonte’s film production company, HarBel Productions in 1959, and acquired the rights to Odds Against Tomorrow. He also contributed to several movies and tv shows including The Beverly Hillbillies, Green Acres, Castle Keep, Snow Job, Saint Jack, The Crazy World of Julius Vrooder, and more.

He remained at Playboy Productions for 16 years and eventually became the President in charge of overseeing television movies, specials, and pilots.

Rissien was survived by his nephew Zinberg, wife Laure, and daughter, Jenna.