I grew up watching: "This Old House", The Victory Garden, and Julia Child. Russell Morash was the creative force behind these programs.
With his passing, that light goes out but we continue to enjoy his creative contributions.
‘This Old House’ creator Russell Morash has died
'Russell Morash, creator of This Old House and a pioneer of how-to television, has died. His death was confirmed by former This Old House producer Nina Fialkow.
“He was an innovator at the core,” Fialkow wrote in an email to GBH News. “[He] created an entire genre of television.”
Morash was born in 1936, growing up in Lexington, Mass., and graduating from Boston University. His storied career with GBH including launching not just This Old House but also the long-running gardening show The Victory Garden, as well as numerous collaborations with Julia Child.
In a 2006 interview, Morash told GBH’s Michael Ambrosino that more than 65 years ago, he was hired at GBH as a camera operator. Several months later, in 1958, he effectively became a producer-director..." From the article: ‘This Old House’ creator Russell Morash has died
Video from This Old House
A Tribute to Russell Morash - This Old House
"The This Old House family wanted to announce the passing of our Founder and the creative force behind This Old House and Ask This Old House, Russell Morash.
A tribute to Russell Morash and his contributions to television. He was a leader in the industry and was the creator of genres that span cooking, woodworking, gardening, and home improvement. His brilliance was in the simple. He made renovating a home seem attainable to the everyday viewer and from that spawned an industry.
About This Old House TV: This Old House is America’s first and most trusted home improvement show. Each season, we renovate two different historic homes—one step at a time—featuring quality craftsmanship and the latest in modern technology. We demystify home improvement and provide ideas and information so, whether you are doing it yourself or hiring out contractors, you’ll know the right way to do things or the questions to ask. Our experts including general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, landscape contractor Jenn Nawada, master carpenter Norm Abram, and host Kevin O’Connor give you the tools you need to protect and preserve your greatest investment—your home." from the video introduction
Thank You Russ
Video from The New Yankee Workshop
"Thank you all for your comments, condolences, and well wishes. Marian and the family really appreciate it.
Every couple of months I would drive up to the Morash household and we’d film a few short videos over a couple of days. Russ always looked forward to it as he loved connecting with fans. We spent more time setting things up than actually filming, ate fantastic food and laughed a lot. I also learned so many things from him and Marian. They are wonderful people.
Most of you know Russ was humble, but every time we sat in his office I was always reminded of his extraordinary career. From Julia Child, Victory Garden, This Old House, and of course, The New Yankee Workshop.
A few weeks ago, we filmed in Russ’s office where we get to see some of his memorabilia before he shows off the desk Norm built for him. It's a nice way to celebrate Russ and everything he accomplished.
Russ, you were a great mentor and friend. I will miss you dearly." from the video introduction
Russell Morash’s legacy shines through timeless shows like This Old House, The Victory Garden, and his collaborations with Julia Child. His vision made complex tasks approachable, inspiring viewers everywhere. Whether learning home improvement or considering options like Sell Absentee Owner House in San Diego, his contributions remind us of the power of creativity and simplicity. A true pioneer who will be deeply missed!