David St. John, ‘I Am Jazz’ and ‘America’s Next Top Model’ Producer, Dies at 56

by

Television producer David St. John, known for his work on shows like “America’s Next Top Model,” passed away on December 19 due to pancreatic cancer in Seattle. He was 56 years old.

Recently, it was announced that St. John had passed away. Kicking off his career at MTV with the series “Taildaters,” he climbed the ranks from an assistant to a story producer. Subsequently, he shifted gears to “America’s Next Top Model,” where he served as co-executive producer for over 100 episodes of the popular reality show.

Saint John dedicated his work to shining a light on marginalized groups, notably during his time on the show “I Am Jazz,” which focused on the life of transgender teenager Jazz Jennings and won a GLAAD Media Award. Later, he moved on to work on “The Ts Madison Experience.

The last project, titled “Jay & Pamela” by TLC, portrayed a loving couple who had osteogenesis imperfecta from birth.

OR

In his final project, TLC’s production “Jay & Pamela” focused on a couple with osteogenesis imperfecta since their birth.

OR

The final work, “Jay & Pamela,” by TLC, depicted an engaged couple who were born with the condition osteogenesis imperfecta.

OR

TLC’s project “Jay & Pamela” was the final one, and it showed an engaged couple who had been living with osteogenesis imperfecta since their birth.

Being around David St. John was like always being near a brilliant light,” said Drew Tappon, Head of Unscripted Development, Programming & Specials at OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network. “He had the power to improve everything and make people feel better. In essence, he simply made us all better.

The family of Jazz Jennings expressed that David was not just the executive producer of ‘I Am Jazz’, but a beloved family member. In times when we faced difficulties, he brought light to our days with his kindness, reassured us with his optimism, and empowered us to share our journey. His compassionate nature, contagious laughter, and unwavering support for our story will always be a vital part of ‘I Am Jazz’ and a treasured memory in our lives.

Previously, St. John underwent two surgeries to extract tumors from his skull, after which he decided to dedicate his time by volunteering to meet with patients who were about to undergo brain surgery.

He leaves behind his husband, Scott Darlington, along with his siblings Corrine, Rachel, and those who held a special place in his heart – Kirsten and Karen Fenswick, who he regarded as his sisters.

Details about memorial services are forthcoming.

Read More

2025-02-21 02:16