Top television screenwriter, producer, and showrunner for Netflix’s Lost in Space reboot, Zack Estrin, died suddenly in Hermosa Beach, California on September 23. He was 51.
Estrin, who was in good health, reportedly died of suspected cardiac arrest after collapsing while jogging on the beach. The exact cause of death is unknown.
Estrin was born in Woodland, California, and raised in Brooklyn, New York. He graduated from USC and began his entertainment career in film, starting as a producer on Stranger Than Fiction and O, a contemporary adaptation of Shakespeare‘s Othello. He then transitioned to television, launching a writing career that took him to the top of the showrunner ranks. His early credits include hits like Charmed and Dawson’s Creek as well as cult favorite, Tru Calling.
“Zack Estrin was our everything,” his family said in a statement. “The best husband, father, son and friend. He loved to make everyone happy. He loved to make everyone laugh. He loved being a writer/producer and being a part of creating these shows that people enjoyed. But above all, he loved his family and friends. Thank you all for being a part of his life and ours.”
Estrin is survived by his wife Kari Estrin, daughters Charlotte and Chloe Estrin, and dogs Molly and Lt. Judy Hopps.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Zack Estrin USC Scholarship Fund. Checks can be sent c/o PNG LLC 11400 W. Olympic Blvd. suite 590 Los Angeles, CA 90064.
