Bruce Bilson, Emmy-Winning Director on ‘Get Smart’ and ‘The Odd Couple,’ Dies at 97

Beloved TV Director Bruce Bilson Passes Away at 97, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Laughter and Excitement

At the age of 97, Emmy-winning director Bruce Bilson left this world on January 16th in Los Angeles, leaving behind a remarkable body of work that entertained millions of people worldwide. Best known for his role as the director of the hit TV series "Get Smart," which won him a Primetime Emmy Award in 1968, Bilson was also responsible for directing hundreds of episodes of other popular shows such as "The Odd Couple," "Hogan's Heroes," and "MASH."

Throughout his career spanning over five decades, Bilson directed an impressive 400+ TV episodes, showcasing his versatility and dedication to the craft. His contributions to television are still celebrated today, and it's clear that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of directors.

Born on May 19, 1928, in Brooklyn, New York, Bilson grew up in a family that was deeply connected to the entertainment industry. His mother, Hattie Bilson, was a screen writer and magazine writer, while his father, George Bilson, worked as a producer at Warner Brothers and RKO. This early exposure to the film and television industry undoubtedly shaped Bilson's passion for storytelling.

Bilson met his first wife, Mona Whiteman, in 1955, with whom he had two children. Later in life, he married actress Renne Jarrett in 1984, a union that lasted until his passing. The couple was blessed with four children together and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A memorial service for Bilson will be held at Hillside Memorial Park in Los Angeles on January 25th at 2 p.m., providing an opportunity for friends, family, and fans to come together and celebrate his life. Donations in his name may be made to casala.org, a fitting tribute to his enduring spirit.

As the entertainment industry mourns the loss of this talented director, we take comfort in knowing that his work continues to bring joy and laughter to audiences around the world. Bruce Bilson's legacy is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and passion for storytelling, which will be cherished for generations to come.
 
🤔 just sad to hear about bruce bilson... 97 years young is no joke lol. he had an insane amount of credits on his imdb page tho 📺️ 400+ episodes? that's dedication right there. love how he grew up in a fam connected to the industry, must've been super inspiring for him. and can we talk about his wife renne jarrett for a sec? she was an actress too? what a power couple 👫👰. anyways, hope they had a happy life together 💕. 🎬
 
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