Hollywood is mourning the loss of a TV giant who shaped some of the most iconic shows ever made.
News broke this week that one of the most influential figures in television history has passed away at 85.
Friends, colleagues, and stars have all paid tribute, calling him “a legend,” “a mentor,” and “a giant.”
That man was Bob Broder — the powerhouse agent behind Cheers, Frasier, Two and a Half Men and more.
He died on Tuesday, September 23, surrounded by family after a battle with cancer, leaving Hollywood in shock.
A Career That Changed Television
Broder’s career spanned over four decades and redefined how shows were created, sold, and packaged for television audiences.
He co-founded the Broder Kurland Agency in 1978, which later merged into ICM, one of Hollywood’s biggest firms.
At ICM, Broder helped orchestrate a management buyout that transformed the company into agent-owned ICM Partners.
He was hailed as one of the “fathers of TV packaging,” mastering deals that reshaped the entire television industry.
His packaged hits included The X-Files, Modern Family, Dharma & Greg, Touched by an Angel and The Big Bang Theory.
He had a special bond with Cheers and even appeared in its finale, knocking on the bar’s iconic door.
Tributes Pour In
Since his death, heartfelt tributes have poured in from some of the biggest names in entertainment.
Director James Burrows said: “I can’t believe I won’t be able to call him anymore. I will miss you.”
UTA’s Jay Sures described him as “the fiercest competitor imaginable,” while WME’s Rick Rosen called him “a tremendous influence.”
Colleagues said his blunt honesty earned him the nickname “Darth Broder,” though he was loyal and deeply caring inside.
More Than Just An Agent
Outside the business, Broder enjoyed poker, hosting cigar Fridays, and spending time with his beloved Golden Retrievers.
He served on boards for The Saban Free Clinic and The Center for Early Education, giving back generously.
Even after leaving ICM in 2012, he remained influential, running Chuck Lorre Productions’ creative division for years.
There, he oversaw hit comedies like The Big Bang Theory and Young Sheldon, cementing his industry legacy further.
A Mentor To Generations
One of Broder’s greatest gifts was mentoring. He personally trained assistants, coordinators, and future leading agents across Hollywood.
When he stepped down from ICM, he received two standing ovations — a sign of enormous respect.
Former partner Chris Silbermann said: “If he cared about you, he was there through everything.”
A Symbolic Farewell
Broder passed away on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, a date believed to mark exceptional righteousness.
His family said he accepted his cancer diagnosis with grace, as he did with every challenge in life.
He leaves behind his wife Cindy, daughter Julie, son Greg, and a vast extended family and community.
A Lasting Legacy
Bob Broder may not have been a household name, but his shows shaped generations and defined television comedy.
Without him, iconic programs like Frasier, Cheers, and Two and a Half Men might never have existed.
He elevated the TV industry and left behind an unmatched legacy of creativity, mentorship, and groundbreaking entertainment.
Hollywood will never forget the man who redefined what it meant to be a true television giant.
Featured image credit: Warner Bros. Television / Chuck Lorre Productions
