Legendary Live TV Director Don Mischer Dies at 85

The Emmy-winning producer passed away on April 11, days after directing his final show and announcing his retirement.

Don Mischer, a trailblazing director and producer in live television, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his Los Angeles home on April 11, 2025, at the age of 85.
Mischer’s career spanned over six decades, during which he directed iconic events such as the Oscars, Emmys, Super Bowl halftime shows, and Olympic Opening Ceremonies.
His final directorial credit was for the 2025 Breakthrough Prize Ceremony, held on April 5 and hosted by James Corden, marking the culmination of his illustrious career.
Mischer was a recipient of 15 Emmy Awards, 10 Directors Guild of America Awards, a Peabody, and numerous other accolades, cementing his legacy as a pioneer in live event broadcasting.
He began his career in 1963 at a PBS station in Austin, Texas, and his work included directing historic moments such as Michael Jackson’s moonwalk and Prince’s Super Bowl halftime performance in the rain.