Ellen DeGeneres Show Executive Producer Matthew Wright Dies at 52 in 'Unfathomable Tragedy' - TV and streaming

Matthew Wright, a longtime executive producer and frequent on-screen presence on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, has died at the age of 52. DeGeneres and colleagues have shared emotional tributes following his passing on October 30 while he was working remotely in Los Angeles.

Ellen DeGeneres is mourning the sudden loss of Matthew Wright, who served as an executive producer on The Ellen DeGeneres Show for 16 years. Wright passed away on Friday, October 30, at the age of 52 while working remotely in Los Angeles. A GoFundMe campaign established for his family describes the event as an unfathomable tragedy, though no specific details regarding the cause of death have been released.

The fundraising page highlights that Wright and his husband, Justin, were both laid off from the show earlier this summer. The family is currently facing significant financial challenges related to transporting Wright's remains home, funeral arrangements, and a memorial service. His husband, father, sister, and niece are reportedly in New York and eager to be reunited for a proper goodbye. The campaign urges friends and those who knew Wright to contribute to help the family during this difficult time.

DeGeneres shared an emotional video tribute expressing her shock at the news. She described Wright as an amazing, funny, smart, and kind individual who was beloved by everyone on the show. "He is and always will be the glue to our entire family at the 'Ellen Show,'" DeGeneres stated, noting that he frequently surprised her with his actions and made her laugh.

Wright was a regular face on the program, often appearing in a recurring segment titled "Strong Opinions With Matt." Colleagues have also begun sharing memories of him. Andy Lassner, another executive producer on the show, posted photos taken on the set of The Jennifer Hudson Show on Thursday, the day before Wright's death. Lassner noted that Wright had stopped by to visit and described him as a brilliant producer and an even better human being.

Lassner recalled Wright's dedication to his family, specifically mentioning how he flew back and forth between Los Angeles and New York nearly every weekend to care for his mother before she passed away. He expressed deep sorrow for Wright's husband, Justin, and their extended family, stating that he was lucky to work alongside and befriend Wright for so many years.

Sources: Deadline.