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TV Syndication Pioneer Henry Siegel Dies at 85
14 Oct
Summary
- Siegel pioneered barter TV syndication, an advertiser-supported model.
- He co-created the first MTV Video Music Awards and ESPY Awards.
- His career spanned producing shows like Baywatch and Care Bears.
Henry Siegel, a visionary syndication specialist, passed away at the age of 85. He was renowned for his pioneering work in barter television syndication, an innovative advertiser-supported distribution model.
Siegel, who died at his Connecticut home, founded Lexington Broadcast Services in 1976. Through LBS, he and his twin brother Paul were instrumental in launching the first MTV Video Music Awards in 1984 and the initial ESPY Awards for ESPN in 1993. These live events were part of a notable slate of ten special productions.
His production and distribution company, LBS, also brought popular shows such as Fame, Family Feud, and Baywatch to audiences. Additionally, they were behind beloved children's series including Care Bears, Strawberry Shortcake, He-Man, and Inspector Gadget.
Later in his career, Siegel co-founded Seagull Entertainment and merged it to form Kaleidoscope Media Group, eventually taking the company public in 1997. He also played a role in the boxing industry and assisted his father-in-law, sportscaster Bill Mazer, with his radio show.
