Overview
- Relatives announced the Los Angeles-based writer-producer’s death on social media, with no cause disclosed, after he shared in July that he was dealing with kidney failure.
- He co-created Fox’s New York Undercover, widely recognized as the first U.S. police drama led by Black and Latino actors Malik Yoba and Michael DeLorenzo.
- Across three decades, his credits spanned Law & Order, Chicago Hope, NYPD Blue and The Shield, along with recent work on BET and OWN titles including Sacrifice, The Quad and Ambitions.
- Tributes from colleagues highlighted his influence and mentorship, with Dick Wolf saying he brought a new voice to cop shows and helped move diversity to the forefront of network TV.
- Most outlets cite two Emmy nominations for outstanding drama series in 1996 and 1998 for Chicago Hope and NYPD Blue after one report listed wins, and a celebration of life is planned for spring 2026.