Who was Paul Eckstein? Co-Creator of ‘Godfather of Harlem’ Dead at 59

American film writer and producer, Paul Eckstein who worked as a well-dedicated member of MGM+ and ABC, has been reported dead. He was best known for co-creating the MGM+ popular crime drama Godfather of Harlem along with writer Chris Brancato.

He also starred in Hoodlum directed by Bill Duke, alongside several actors including Tim Roth, Vanessa Williams, and Laurence Fishburne. He was the head of the writers’ room in the first year of the 2015-17 popular Netflix drug drama series Narcos.

Eckstein died peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at age 59. MGM+ released an official statement on June 7, 2023, to confirm his death.

“We are deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of our brilliant colleague Paul Eckstein, the co-creator and executive producer of Godfather of Harlem, and a beloved member of the MGM+ and ABC Signature families. Working on the series was a labor of love for Paul, who based the show in part on his family’s personal history. Paul was passionate, a creative force, known for his kindness and generosity. He was a mentor and friend to many, and he will be dearly missed,” the statement read.