The View co-founder Bill Geddie dies as family release heartbreaking statement
Bill Geddie, the television producer who co-founded the popular ABC talk show, The View, has passed away at the age of 68.
His family made the heartbreaking announcement in the statement to Variety, writing: "He was a big deal in TV, but at home, he was an even 'bigger than life' husband and dad. He had a genuine love for television and entertainment."
It was continued: "He enjoyed connecting with people, and we know we are not the only ones who will miss his encouraging way of positive guidance.
"He did so with enthusiasm mixed with sarcasm. His special style of humor was filled with puns. He believed in honesty. He was a kind man of integrity and always wanted to do the right thing. He lived by example."
Bill served as The View's executive producer for 17 seasons after co-founding the show with Barbara Walters.
The View hosts pay tribute to 'the original role model' Barbara Walters
Bill Geddie, the television producer who co-founded The View, has passed away at 68 (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)He also partnered with Barbara and her production company for over 25 years. He served as executive producer, writer and director on The Barbara Walters Specials as well as The 10 Most Fascinating People.
His list of impressive credentials didn't end there, as he bagged a coveted Emmy Award for his producing work on Good Morning America.
In total, he received four Emmys and was also the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Hosts of The View immediately took to social media following the devastating news to pay tribute to Bill.
Joy Behar tweeted: "We are saddened by the sudden death of Bill Geddie. As a producer, he kept us together and was very loyal to his staff. Bill loved comedy and plenty of laughs not to mention a good cigar.
"I'm forever grateful to him and Barbara for the opportunity to be on the View. RIP 'VIEWMASTER.'"
Bill received four Emmys during his career and was the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award (Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)
Devastated hosts of The View paid tribute to Bill (Getty Images)Sunny Hostin added: "My friend & mentor Bill Geddie has transitioned at 68. Bill was the 1st person to believe that I could be a national talk show host."
"He told me after an audition for The View 'you were sitting there watching the show instead of being on the show. Lean in like I know you can.'"
The show's Instagram account also paid an image of Bill, while writing: "It's with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of The View co-creator and one of television's most well-respected producers, Bill Geddie.
"He was a pioneer in television and greatly beloved by The View family, creating the show with Barbara Walters and serving as its executive producer for 17 years."
The View star explains decision not to attend tribute show to Barbara Walters
The statement concluded: "The View wouldn't exist without Bill Geddie. 'He was a big deal in TV, but at home he was an even 'bigger than life' husband and dad,' his family said in a statement. Our love goes out to his wife Barbara and their two daughters, Allison and Lauren."
According to Entertainment Weekly, Monday's episode of The View will honour Bill.
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