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The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Steven Sunshine, a talented writer-producer whose legacy includes work on iconic shows such as “The New Odd Couple” and “Webster,” as well as the film “Son of the Pink Panther.” Sunshine passed away at the age of 81 on March 15 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, after a courageous battle with progressive supranuclear palsy.
Throughout his career, Steven made a significant impact in television, spending nearly two decades as a senior producer for the show “Extra,” a role that earned him a Daytime Emmy. During his tenure, he orchestrated memorable interviews with stars and leaders like Al Pacino, President Barack Obama, and Alec Baldwin. In tribute, a spokesperson from “Extra” shared, “Our ‘Extra’ family was struck with sad news this week. We lost a cherished member of our team who will always be remembered as a beacon of sunshine.”
Steven’s ability to secure high-profile interviews was legendary, with “Extra” noting his unparalleled skill in connecting with celebrities and public figures, from Alec Baldwin to Al Pacino and even President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. Beyond his professional achievements, Steven’s life was marked by a deep devotion to his wife, Maddie. Together, they formed a dynamic creative partnership responsible for sitcoms like “Webster” and “Julie,” starring Julie Andrews, as well as projects such as “Son of the Pink Panther” and “Serrano: The Musical.”
Born in the Bronx, New York City, on March 9, 1945, Steven Sunshine pursued his education at the University of Buffalo, laying the foundation for a remarkable career in the entertainment industry. His contributions have left an indelible mark, and he will be remembered fondly by those who knew him and appreciated his work.
Steven was born in the Bronx, in New York City, on March 9, 1945 and received his degree from the University of Buffalo.
The producer regularly worked alongside his wife of 56 years Madeline Sunshine who is also a published children’s author, playwright and novelist.
The pair were behind Serrano the Musical which is a production directed by Joel Zwick which combined elements of Tony Soprano and Cyrano de Bergerac and Tony Soprano.
Steven and his wife also developed for CBS the 1989 sitcom The People Next Door.