Zack Estrin, a screenwriter and producer best known for serving as showrunner and executive producer for Netflix’s “Lost in Space” reboot, died Friday, a representative for the family said Sunday. He was 51.
“Zack Estrin was our everything,” the screenwriter’s family said in a statement. “The best husband, father, son and friend. He loved to make everyone happy. He loved to make everyone laugh. He loved being a writer/producer and being a part of creating these shows that people enjoyed. But above all, he loved his family and friends. Thank you all for being a part of his life and ours.”
The California native rose through the ranks of Hollywood as a producer and writer, eventually becoming an executive producer and showrunner on shows like “The River” and “The Whispers.”
Estrin was born in Woodland, California and raised in Brooklyn, New York, before attending USC and beginning his career in the entertainment industry. Starting as a producer on “Stranger Than Fiction” and the “Othello” adaptation “O,” Estrin worked his way into the writers’ room with early credits on “Charmed,” “Dawson’s Creek,” and “Tru Calling.”
He then served as showrunner and executive producer on ABC’s paranormal thrillers “The River” and “The Whispers” and also co-executive produced “Prison Break.” He rose to co-creator and executive producer in “Once Upon a Time in Wonderland.” Most recently, he was a showrunner and executive producer on Netflix’s “Lost in Space” reboot.
“Zack was our client for nearly 25 years,” WME President Ari Greenburg said. “He had a tremendously successful career and mentored so many writers. We are so proud of all his accomplishments and feel blessed to have called him a friend.”
“Zack was a beloved writer, producer, and partner, whose work taught us to seek adventure and trust in family. His vision and passion will be greatly missed,” said Matt Thunell, Netflix VP of series.
No cause of death was given. Estrin is survived by his wife Kari Estrin, daughters Charlotte Estrin and Chloe Estrin and his dogs Molly and Lt. Judy Hopps.