The daytime talk show, hosted by Sherri Shepherd, reported that executive-in-charge Matt Uzzle died unexpectedly on February 13, 2024, at his home in Piermont, New York. His body was found during a welfare check after colleagues expressed concern over his absence. While reports speculate Uzzle’s death is a suicide.
Financial Irregularities Surface
Uzzle worked in production and was responsible for the budget for “Sherri. Some departments flagged issues with petty cash, which had recently come to their attention. The suit also alleged that rent for the show’s New York City studio in Chelsea had gone unpaid since Sept. Such monetary inconsistencies led the parent company of the show, Debmar-Mercury, to conduct an internal probe.
Company’s Response and Ongoing Investigation
Debmar-Mercury has hired the law firm Morgan Lewis to help with a review of the financial issues. Morgan Lewis said, “We have retained Morgan Lewis to help us investigate the matter, and pending the outcome of that investigation, we’ll have no further comment.” However, the show “Sherri” has continued production despite the ongoing investigation.
Tributes and Industry Impact
An in-memoriam segment dedicated to Uzzle was featured on episode 7 of season 2 of “Sherri,” which aired on February 15, 2024. The production has reportedly hired grief counselors to help staff members dealing with the loss. Uzzle is a veteran production manager on shows including The Wendy Williams Show.
Background on ‘Sherri’ and Uzzle’s Role
Sherri Shepherd’s “Sherri” premiered in September 2022, taking over the timeslot formerly held by “The Wendy Williams Show.” Uzzle moved over from his previous gig on “The Wendy Williams Show” to Sherri where he has a long history of producer credits in daytime. He was in charge of production logistics and the show’s budget.
Industry Reactions and Broader Implications
Uzzle is not the first high-power television executive to die under tragic circumstances, and his death has raised questions about the pressures of running a hot show. It has also renewed calls for better mental health support and tighter financial controls on the crafts.
