De Croce memorial fund close to target

An online fundraiser set up in memory of Richard De Croce, the popular TV executive who died last week, is close to reaching its US$275,000 target.

Richard De Croce

De Croce, who died on October 18, held several senior positions in the industry, most recently serving as senior VP of programming at streamer Crackle, which he joined earlier this year.

An online fundraiser was set up on Tuesday to go towards funeral costs and provide additional funds to De Croce’s wife and four children. At the time of writing, the fund is less than US$25,000 away from reaching its target.

Joe Argenziano, who set up the fund, said: “Rich was a great husband and father, and was beloved by all that knew him. I have known Rich and his family for over 10 years. I coached his children and found them to be as good a family as you will ever meet. Anyone who has had the good fortune of having had their lives touched by the De Croce family is better for it.”

De Croce held top roles at BBC America and Comedy Central during his career in the TV industry and has been credited with bringing shows such as Orphan Black to the US.

During almost 15 years at BBC America, De Croce coproducing and acquired global franchises and positioned them for success in the US, including hits such as Killing Eve, Doctor Who, Top Gear, Luther and Planet Earth.

“We are looking to raise as much money as possible in the next few days to be able to present to the family in the coming days,” Argenziano added.

“It is moments like these that we as a community need to pick each other up and help get one of our own through this most difficult of times. We would appreciate anything you can give – no donation is too small. Thank you very much in advance – I know that in similar times of need, Rich would be there for all of us,”