Overview
Donald Winfred "Don" Ohlmeyer Jr. (February 3, 1945 – September 10, 2017) was an American television producer and network executive. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, he became a prominent figure in broadcast television through senior management and production roles. His career combined creative production, programming oversight and later work in education and media accountability.
Career and responsibilities
Ohlmeyer served as president of the NBC network's west coast division, a senior role in which he supervised program development, staffing and day‑to‑day operations for West Coast production. In such capacities, executives typically coordinate with production teams, negotiate with talent, approve schedules and influence the editorial and commercial direction of programming. He was widely recognized as a producer and executive who moved between creative and corporate functions.
- Television production and executive leadership
- Programming and talent oversight
- Operational management for West Coast studios
Teaching and later roles
After decades in the industry, Ohlmeyer turned to teaching and public engagement. He was a professor of television communications at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, sharing practical experience with students. He also served as ombudsman for ESPN.com for eighteen months, a role focused on reader concerns and journalistic standards; his term concluded in January 2011.
Personal life, death and legacy
Ohlmeyer died in Indian Wells, California on September 10, 2017 at the age of 72 after a battle with cancer. Colleagues and observers remember him for a career that bridged hands‑on production work and network management, and for mentoring younger professionals. His trajectory illustrates the range of roles available in television—from producing content to shaping institutional policy and educating the next generation.
Notable aspects
Beyond specific credits, Ohlmeyer's career highlights several broader themes in broadcast media: the blending of creative and executive duties, the importance of regional leadership within national networks, and the later transition many industry veterans make into teaching and public roles that address ethics and accountability in journalism and entertainment.