TMZ founder Jim Paratore Dies at Age 58
Jim Paratore, the founder of celebrities' site TMZ.com and a prominent TV producer, died Tuesday. He was 58.
Paratore died from a heart attack while cycling in France.
Paratore spent much of his career at Warner Bros. Television which released the following statement.
"TheWarner Bros.Television family has lost an incredibly talented and creative friend and colleague in Jim,” said Bruce Rosenblum, president,Warner Bros.Television Group.
“He has left an indelible mark not only on our company’s success but on each of us who worked with him during the past 26 years. Jim had a passion for life, both inside and outside the entertainment industry, and he will truly be missed.”
During his time at Warner he helped create and launch "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," "The Rosie O'Donnell Show" and "The Bachelor."
"My friend, producer and champion Jim Paratore died today. He gave me a chance when no one else would. I love you, Jim," wrote Ellen DeGeneres on her Twitter.
Paratore is survived by his wife Jill Wickert and his daughter Martinique.
