Stephen J. Cannell: R.I.P.

Stephen J. Cannell, the prolific writer-producer of dozens of TV series that included The Rockford Files, The A-Team, Silk Stalkings, Wiseguy, 21 Jump Street, died last night at the age of 69 from complications associated with melanoma.

After three decades as an independent producer of TV shows, Cannell in recent years had focused his attention to writing crime novels, and had published 16, including the Shane Scully series and several stand-alones.

As an actor, he had a recurring role on ABC-TV's series, "Castle."

Very sad.

Just added:  Jamie Weinman's comments HERE.