TV Comedy Writer Bernie Orenstein Dies at 95
Bernie Orenstein, a television comedy writer and producer, died on Sept. 14 at 95. He frequently worked with Saul Turteltaub on series such as 'The New Dick Van Dyke Show,' 'That Girl,' 'Kate & Allie,' 'What's Happening!!' and 'Cosby.' The pair also contributed to 'Sanford and Son.'
Bernie Orenstein died on Sept. 14, his family confirmed. He was 95. He often worked with Saul Turteltaub, writing and producing for television. Their joint credits included The New Dick Van Dyke Show, That Girl, The Beautiful Phyllis Diller Show, Kate & Allie, What's Happening!!, and Cosby. They also contributed to Sanford and Son.
Orenstein recalled that Redd Foxx, the star of Sanford and Son, watched out for the two writers, who were white and Jewish, while they worked on a Black-centered series. That memory points to a distinctive collaboration in television comedy.
Orenstein’s death may draw renewed attention to the writers behind classic sitcoms. Fans, TV historians, and industry peers could revisit his collaborations with Saul Turteltaub, while streaming services and archives may see fresh interest in those series. The story may also remind audiences how behind-the-scenes creators shaped television comedy and its portrayals of family and race, though such influence is likely to be recognized retrospectively rather than immediately.