Ernest Chambers, who shaped some of the most influential variety television of the 1960s and beyond, died May 28 at his home in Los Angeles following a brief illness. He was 97.
According to Variety, Chambers produced, wrote, and executive produced more than 1,000 hours of television over a 50-year career. He earned 11 Emmy nominations and four Writers Guild Award nominations during that time.
Chambers got his start writing on television hits of the 1960s, including The Bob Newhart Show, The Danny Kaye Show, My Three Sons, and The Dick Van Dyke Show. He then served as the original showrunner of The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, which he developed alongside writer-producer Saul Ilson. The show ran for three seasons from 1967 to 1968.
Through the 1970s and 1980s, Chambers continued producing, creating TV specials and series for performers including Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, Donna Summer, Carol Channing, Tony Orlando and Dawn, Sid Caesar, Tony Randall, Bobby Darin, Merv Griffin, and Barry Manilow. He also produced Dance Fever, which ran from 1978 to 1987.
In 1997, he executive produced Click, a two-season game show that served as one of Ryan Seacrest's first hosting jobs.
Chambers also worked in theater. He wrote for the stage production of Dennis the Menace, and later executive produced the 1993 movie adaptation. He also wrote for the Carol Channing revue Show Girl, which ran on Broadway in 1961. He later served as Vice President of Television and Film at Merv Griffin Entertainment.
Chambers was born December 28, 1928, in Philadelphia. After serving in the army, he attended Columbia University, where he served as editor-in-chief of The Jester, the university's humor magazine. Before moving to Los Angeles, he worked in advertising as a copywriter while also writing comedy sketches and songs for the 1950s New York City cabaret scene.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Veronica, daughters Alison and Kathryn, son Christopher, and five grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son, editor and television executive Brian Chambers. A memorial will be held in Beverly Hills in the coming weeks. Those seeking details can email ECMemorial2026@gmail.com.
