Loren Ruch, co-host of the 2021 HGTV series “HGTV House Party” and had of content for the network, has died. He was 55.
Ruch died Thursday, June 12 of acute myeloid leukemia, Variety reported, which is cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects myeloid cells, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Channing Dungey, chair of Warner Bros. Television Group, called Ruch “the rare leader who lifted everyone around him” in a statement obtained by the outlet.
“Known for his unwavering dedication, endless kindness, and unshakeable integrity, Loren built not only hit shows but enduring relationships, serving as mentor, advocate and true friend to countless colleagues across the television landscape,” Dungey wrote. “His impact stretched far beyond the screen. Loren was the connective tissue of every room he entered — the glue that bound teams, departments, and friendships. He possessed the rare gift of making people feel seen, valued, and inspired to do their best work.”
Ruch had been a top programming executive at HGTV since 2008, according to Variety. He served as an executive producer on several series including “HGTV Dream Home,” “HGTV Green Home,” “Rose Parade” and “White House Christmas.”
Ruch is also credited with helping to mold such shows as “My Lottery Dream Home,” “Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge,” “Celebrity IOU,” “Battle on the Beach” and the Emmy-nominated “A Very Brady Renovation.”
“For those of us lucky enough to have known and loved Loren, the things we remember, and cherish go far beyond his professional accomplishments,” Dungey wrote in the statement, per Variety.
“We warmly recall the way he supported his team and his colleagues, celebrating their victories and lending a sympathetic ear when things were difficult. Loren’s light touched everyone lucky enough to know him,” she wrote. ”Though gone too soon, he leaves behind a lasting imprint on both the television industry and the lives of those who loved him.”
Ruch was named head of content for the lifestyle cabler in January 2023. He is Ruch is survived by his husband, David Salas, his parents and his brother, Variety reported.
