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Proper Television president dies

Guy O’Sullivan, founder and president of Canadian indie Proper Television, passed away over the weekend at the age of 49.

Guy O’Sullivan

A spokesperson for Proper told C21: “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the sudden passing of Guy O’Sullivan, president of Proper Television.

“On behalf of everyone at Proper Television, we extend our sincere condolences to his children and family. Guy had a tremendous impact in the Canadian and international television industry, and was adored by his colleagues and staff.”

The spokesperson added that O’Sullivan passed away suddenly and that, out of respect for his family, no further comment would be made.

O’Sullivan launched Proper in 2004 and led it to success with original shows such as Don’t Drive Here and Vegas Rat Rods, plus Canadian versions of major international formats including MasterChef Canada and Come Dine with Me Canada.

O’Sullivan executive produced many series for Canadian broadcast group Bell Media. The broadcaster’s president Randy Lennox said: “Guy’s passing is a tragic loss to Canada’s production community, and everyone here at Bell Media.

“Guy was an incredibly bright, charming, generous, and well-loved friend to all who knew and worked with him. In addition to his work on CTV’s MasterChef Canada projects, he helmed many of Discovery’s success stories for the last dozen years – more than half of the network’s history – developing personal friendships along the way. His work has made an indelible impact, and he will be dearly missed.”

He worked in the industry for more than two decades, having begun his career as a print journalist before moving into television as a producer and director at the BBC in the UK. After five years with the UK pubcaster, O’Sullivan moved to Canada, while continuing to work as producer and director for Mentorn Media in the UK.

 

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