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HGTV Content Chief Loren Ruch Dies at 55 After Leukemia Battle

Tributes highlight his mentorship, influence on HGTV programming, championing of LGBTQ+ causes.

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PASADENA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 16: (L-R) Darren Keefe, Carrie Locklyn and Loren Ruch of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" speak during the HGTV segment of the 2020 Winter TCA Press Tour at The Langham Huntington, Pasadena on January 16, 2020 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Channing Dungey confirmed in a June 19 memo that Ruch died of acute myeloid leukemia.
  • Ruch joined HGTV in 2008 and rose to head of content, overseeing hits such as HGTV House Party, Dream Home, White House Christmas and A Very Brady Renovation.
  • Dungey described Ruch as the “connective tissue” of every room, praising his dedication, kindness and integrity.
  • Personalities including Bobby Berk and Jasmine Roth shared social media tributes, recalling his warmth, creativity and supportive mentorship.
  • A board member of Live Out Loud, Ruch is remembered for championing LGBTQ+ youth and is survived by his husband, David Salas, his parents and brother.