Jamie Bennett, a well-respected television executive who worked at CBS and Walt Disney, passed away on July 6 at the age of 78 after battling cancer. Throughout his career, Bennett developed popular shows such as “Live With Regis and Kathie Lee,” showcasing his talent and creativity in the television industry.
Bennett’s career at CBS spanned 13 years, where he held various executive positions at radio and TV stations in San Francisco and Chicago before eventually becoming the VP and general manager of KCBS-TV in Los Angeles. His expertise and dedication to the industry led him to transition to the Walt Disney Company, where he served as the senior VP of Buena Vista Television Productions. During his time at Disney, Bennett played a pivotal role in developing syndicated shows like “Live with Regis and Kathie Lee,” “Siskel and Ebert,” and “Win, Lose or Draw.”
After his tenure at Disney, Bennett became the president and CEO of ACI, a television and theatrical film distribution company based in Los Angeles. Following the acquisition of ACI by Pearson Television (now Fremantle Limited), Bennett relocated to London with his family to oversee its worldwide production operations.
Born in New York City, Bennett later moved to Northfield, Massachusetts, and eventually attended the University of California, Berkeley. During his time at Berkeley, he served as the program director for the university’s radio station and produced their annual Jazz Festival. After graduating, Bennett received the Kenneth Priestly Award for his exceptional student leadership and contributions to student welfare.
Furthering his education, Bennett earned an MBA from Harvard Business School and later served as the chief operating officer at the Southern California Institute of Architecture in downtown Los Angeles. In addition to his professional achievements, Bennett was actively involved in various organizations, including the Ojai Music Festival, where he served on the board and eventually became CEO and president.
Jamie Bennett is survived by his wife, Carolyn Doepke Bennett, their children Katherine, Lucy, and Brooks, as well as his older sister, Judith Wilson, and niece Alison Akers. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ojai Music Festival, Jamie Bennett Community Fund, PO Box 185, Ojai, CA 93024, or online at OjaiFestival.org by adding Jamie’s name to the Memory Box.
Jamie Bennett’s contributions to the television industry and his dedication to various organizations will always be remembered and cherished by those who knew him.
