Jerry Golod: The Visionary Producer Behind Cult Classics Like 'Tales From the Darkside' Dies at 87

Introduction

The television landscape has lost a significant architect with the passing of Jerry Golod, a producer whose keen eye for the unconventional and knack for nurturing unique storytelling brought enduring cult classics to the small screen. Golod died on Wednesday at his home in Rancho Mirage, California, at the age of 87, following a brief battle with cancer. His daughter, Dori Golod Howell, confirmed his death to The Hollywood Reporter, marking the end of a prolific career that spanned over four decades and left an indelible mark on genre television and children's programming.

Key Details

• Death: Jerry Golod died at 87 on Wednesday at his home in Rancho Mirage after a brief battle with cancer.
• Notable Works: He is best remembered for his role in bringing the spirit of George A. Romero's 'Creepshow' to television as 'Tales From the Darkside,' and also produced 'Adderly,' 'Return to Green Acres,' and a reboot of 'Land of the Lost.'
• Career Trajectory: Golod began his career in advertising before moving into television, holding executive positions at CBS and NBC, and later founding JayGee Productions.
• Legacy: He was known for identifying and developing unconventional ideas, successfully translating them into popular television series and telefilms.
• Family: He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Ruth, two children, Dori and Jason, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Background

Born Jerome Golod in the Bronx on December 26, 1938, his early career began in the advertising world at Dancer Fitzgerald Sample. By the early 1970s, he had risen to vice president and associate director of programming, also heading a TV production company affiliated with the agency. This foundational experience in advertising and early television production provided him with a unique perspective on audience engagement and content creation.

Golod transitioned to network television in 1975, joining CBS as vice president of children's programs. During his tenure, he oversaw a diverse slate of programming aimed at young audiences, including enduring shows like 'Captain Kangaroo' and educational specials such as 'What's It All About?' and 'In the News' broadcasts. He also played a role in introducing children to the arts through programs featuring the Alvin Ailey dance company and the New York Philharmonic. His responsibilities later expanded to include primetime variety development at CBS.

In 1979, Golod moved to NBC Entertainment as vice president and national program director. His purview at NBC encompassed daytime, children's programming, specials, variety shows, and West Coast late-night programming, further broadening his experience across different television genres and time slots. He remained with NBC until 1980, honing his skills in program development and network strategy.

Impact Analysis

Golod's most significant contribution to television history is arguably his role in the creation of 'Tales From the Darkside.' After the success of Stephen King's horror-comedy anthology film 'Creepshow' (1982), Golod saw the potential to adapt its unique blend of horror, dark humor, and anthology storytelling for a television audience. Collaborating with director George A. Romero and producer Richard P. Rubinstein, Golod spearheaded the development of the series. Although direct adaptation of 'Creepshow' was hindered by rights issues, the concept evolved into 'Tales From the Darkside,' which premiered in first-run syndication in 1983. The show became a cult phenomenon, running for four seasons and attracting contributions from literary giants like Harlan Ellison, Clive Barker, Robert Bloch, and Michael McDowell, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of horror television.

Another notable project was the adventure series 'Adderly.' Inspired by a secondary character in Elliott Baker's 1971 novel 'Pocock and Pitt,' Golod developed the concept around an intelligence operative. Produced in Toronto, 'Adderly' was an early example of cost-effective original dramatic programming created in Canada for the U.S. market, airing on CBS. The series ran for two seasons, showcasing Golod's ability to identify compelling characters and narratives that could resonate with audiences while also navigating the economics of television production.

Golod also left his mark on revivals and nostalgic projects. He executive produced the 1990 telefilm 'Return to Green Acres,' successfully reuniting the beloved stars Eddie Albert and Eva Gabor, and the 1991 revival of 'Land of the Lost,' introducing a new generation to the classic children's adventure series. These projects demonstrated his versatility and his understanding of how to leverage existing intellectual property for contemporary audiences.

Broader Context

Jerry Golod operated during a transformative era in television. The 1970s and 1980s saw the rise of cable television and first-run syndication, offering new avenues for niche programming that might not have found a home on the major broadcast networks. His work on 'Tales From the Darkside' exemplifies the potential of syndication to cultivate dedicated fan bases for genre shows. Furthermore, his involvement in producing 'Adderly' in Canada highlights the growing trend of international co-production and the search for more economical production models in Hollywood.

Golod's career also intersected with significant shifts in children's television. His early executive role at CBS during a period when children's programming was undergoing scrutiny and evolution demonstrates a commitment to developing quality content for younger viewers. The era saw a move towards more educational and diverse programming, and Golod's oversight of shows like 'Captain Kangaroo' and various cultural specials placed him at the forefront of these developments.

Future Outlook

Golod's influence extended into the 21st century, with his involvement in a proposed 2013 revival of 'Tales From the Darkside.' Alongside producers Alex Kurtzman, Roberto Orci, and writer Joe Hill, Golod was part of the team attempting to reintroduce the iconic anthology series to a new generation. Although the pilot produced in 2015 did not lead to a full series order, it underscored the enduring appeal of the franchise he helped create and his continued passion for the projects that defined his career. His legacy serves as an inspiration for producers seeking to blend creative vision with commercial viability in the ever-evolving television industry.

Conclusion

Jerry Golod’s passing marks the end of an era for television production. His career, characterized by a rare ability to champion bold, often unconventional ideas, resulted in programming that continues to resonate with audiences decades later. From the chilling tales of 'Tales From the Darkside' to the adventurous spirit of 'Adderly' and the nostalgic revivals he helmed, Golod demonstrated a consistent talent for identifying compelling narratives and bringing them to life. His foundational work in advertising and his executive roles at major networks provided a rich backdrop for his entrepreneurial ventures. He leaves behind a legacy of cult classics and a testament to the power of creative vision in shaping television history. His contributions will be remembered by fans of horror, adventure, and family programming alike.