A prolific filmmaker behind many iconic TV shows and movies, particularly in the horror and comedy genres, with a distinctive style that blended humor and suspense. He's credited with shaping the tone and style of several beloved franchises.
William Asher is renowned as one of the most influential television and film producers, directors, and screenwriters of his time, credited with revolutionizing the sitcom genre. With a career spanning over five decades, Asher left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, producing or directing over two dozen series, including the iconic I Love Lucy and Bewitched.
Born on August 8, 1921, in New York City, Asher was exposed to the world of entertainment from a young age. His mother, Lillian Bonner, was a stage actress, and his father, Ephraim M. Asher, was a producer with a string of movie credits. Asher's family relocated to Los Angeles when he was just three years old, and he would often accompany his father to the movie studio. However, his parents' divorce when he was 11 led to a tumultuous period, with Asher dropping out of school and working in the mailroom at Universal Studios in Los Angeles.
Asher's early career was marked by his service in the Army Signal Corps during World War II, where he worked as a unit photographer. After his military service, he returned to California and began his journey in the film industry, directing low-budget films like Leather Gloves (1948).
Asher's breakthrough came when he transitioned to television, a relatively new medium at the time. He introduced the sitcom Our Miss Brooks, adapted from a popular radio show, which aired from 1952 to 1956. Asher's success with Our Miss Brooks led to his involvement with I Love Lucy, which he began directing in 1952. His work on I Love Lucy earned him a DGA Award nomination in 1951.
Asher's subsequent collaboration with his wife, Elizabeth Montgomery, on the hit series Bewitched further solidified his reputation as a master of television comedy. He produced the series from its fourth season and won an Emmy Award for directing in 1966. Throughout his career, Asher was nominated for four Emmy Awards and won once.
William Asher's contributions to the world of television comedy are immeasurable. He is often credited with inventing the sitcom, and his work paved the way for future generations of television producers and directors. Asher's influence can be seen in the numerous sitcoms that followed in his footsteps, including The Brady Bunch, The Dick Van Dyke Show, and The Mary Tyler Moore Show.
Asher's legacy extends beyond his on-screen accomplishments. He was a devoted husband and father, and his marriage to Elizabeth Montgomery lasted from 1963 until his death in 2012.
William Asher's remarkable career and legacy serve as a testament to his innovative spirit, creative vision, and dedication to the art of television comedy. His influence continues to be felt in the entertainment industry, and his work remains a beloved part of American pop culture.
93 Years Old
Star of the iconic TV show "Bewitched," playing a lovable witch with magical powers, and producing several films and TV shows. She's a beloved figure in American pop culture.
97 Years Old
Star of the classic sitcom "Bewitched," playing the lovable but bumbling husband Darrin Stephens, bringing magic and mayhem to 1960s television.
Born in 1900
A talented actress who brought iconic characters to life on screen, earning four Academy Award nominations and winning an Emmy for her work on the popular TV show "Bewitched".
Born in 1916
American actor known for his roles in classic TV shows and films, including the iconic sitcom "Bewitched" and the movie "The Apartment".
65 Years Old
Soap opera star and singer, best known for her long-running role as Blair Cramer on the ABC soap opera "One Life to Live".
