Paul eckstein dies: ‘godfather of harlem’ co-creator was 59

Paul Eckstein, co-creator and executive producer of the drama series _Godfather of Harlem_ and an actor who appeared multiple times on _Star Trek: Voyager_ and other shows,_ _has died. He

was 59. A spokesperson for MGM+ and ABC Signature told Deadline that he died unexpectedly in his sleep on June 6. “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of our brilliant

colleague, Paul Eckstein,” MGM+ and ABC Signature said in a statement. “Working on the series was a labor of love for Paul, who based the show in part on his family’s personal history. Paul

was passionate, a creative force, known for his kindness, and generosity. He was a mentor and friend to many, and he will be dearly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family,

friends, and his longtime collaborator Chris Brancato.” Family and friends described Eckstein as “many things: a celebrated storyteller, a devoted husband, and a faithful friend, but his

most important role was Father.” WATCH ON DEADLINE Born and raised in Brooklyn, Eckstein graduated with honors from Brown University, earning degrees in international relations and creative

writing. Following graduation, he began working in New York City theater, where he was a founding member of the Naked Angels Theater Company, and featured on Broadway, Shakespeare in the

Park and Minnesota’s Guthrie Theater.  He went on to act in television and film, appearing multiple times on _Star Trek: Voyager_, _Star Trek: Deep Space Nine_ and other series including

_Law & Order, The Steve Harvey Show_ and _413 Hope St_. As a film producer, Eckstein co-produced MGM’s _Hoodlum_. Before co-creating _Godfather of Harlem_, along with his writing partner

Brancato, Eckstein led the writers room on the first year of the hit Netflix drama _Narcos_. Eckstein also wrote and produced the Disney/ABC biblical series _Of Kings and Prophets_ on

location in South Africa. His other writing credits include _Street Time_, _Law & Order: Criminal Intent_ and _The Dead Zone_. When Eckstein was not creating shows highlighting history,

high stakes and stories from people of color, he could be found mentoring the next generation of diverse storytellers. “As we bid farewell to the brilliant force and light that was Paul

Eckstein, we honor the multifaceted man who demonstrated an unwavering love for his family, a deep curiosity and compassion for humanity, and a commitment to sharing stories that opened the

hearts and minds of the world,” his family said in a statement. Eckstein is survived by his sons, Sebastian and Marley Eckstein; and his wife, Hala Khouri; along with extended family. In

lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Paul Eckstein Scholarship Fund and the Ghetto Film School.