Gary L. Budney, an entertainment executive who spent two decades with ABC Television, has died. He was 91 years old.
Budney died peacefully on Monday surrounded by his family.
During his tenure with ABC Television, he became Senior Vice President of Specials, Talent and Special Projects, where he produced and oversaw a slew of award-winning programming, including the Academy Awards, American Music Awards, Emmy Awards, American Comedy Awards, Special Olympics International Opening Ceremony and ABC’s 50th Anniversary Celebration at Radio City Music Hall.
Pudney oversaw special performances including Julie Andrews The Voice of Christmas“Royal Gala” to honor His Royal Highness Prince Charles and Princess Diana, 100 star night and Rolling Stone Magazine anniversary celebrations. He was also involved in the development of made-for-television films and miniseries, including the Jane Fonda film. Doll makerTruman Capote Christmas memory And Neil Simon Plaza Suite.
Under his leadership, Pudney-related productions have accumulated more than 50 Emmy Awards.
Pudney founded the Gary L. Pudney Company in 1988, an extension of his work as a producer and EP for global television and live events.
He also served as an artistic advisor to the Princess Grace Foundation USA, helping to preserve Princess Grace’s legacy. Elsewhere, the entertainment executive has also been a philanthropist, helping to raise millions of dollars for organizations including the American Foundation for AIDS Research, the International Red Cross, Special Olympics, and the United Cerebral Palsy Foundation, among others.
“Those who knew Gary Budney remember not only a successful entertainment executive, but also a gracious host, a trusted mentor, an accomplished showman, and a passionate advocate for the arts,” the statement read. “His legacy lives on through the productions he created, the careers he helped launch, and the friendships he maintained throughout the entertainment world.”
