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TV Director Ralph Hemecker Dies at 65
25 Jul
Summary
- Ralph Hemecker, director of 'The X-Files,' passed away at 65.
- He helmed numerous episodes for popular shows like 'Blue Bloods.'
- Hemecker also directed the pilot for Heath Ledger's 'Roar.'
Ralph W. Hemecker, a distinguished TV director, writer, and producer, died on July 10 at his residence in Glendale, California. He was 65 years old.
Hemecker was celebrated for his directorial contributions to a vast array of television series, including "The X-Files," "Blue Bloods," "Once Upon a Time," and "The Flash." His impressive body of work also encompassed "Millennium," "Ghost Whisperer," "Numb3rs," "The Vampire Diaries," and "Nikita."
His career began in production and post-production, with early directing roles on Fox's "America's Most Wanted" and the syndicated series "Silk Stalkings." A significant milestone was his direction of the TNT TV movie "Witchblade" in 2000, leading to his role as showrunner, executive producer, and writer for the subsequent TV series.
Hemecker directed a substantial number of episodes for "Blue Bloods" (31) and "Once Upon a Time" (28). He also helmed the Fox pilot "Roar," which featured Heath Ledger, and other pilots like "Lawless" and "Dead at 21." He founded Mythic Films in 2000.
Colleagues and actors remembered Hemecker for his kindness, generosity, and artistic passion. "Once Upon a Time" star Lana Parilla described him as one of the kindest souls she had ever known and a defining director for the show. Executive producers Adam Horowitz and Eddy Kitsis lauded him as a great friend, partner, and true artist whose contributions were immeasurable.
Hemecker is survived by his father, sister, brother, two stepdaughters, nephews, a niece, and a great-nephew. Services will be announced later.
