Emmy-winning director Rod Holcomb dies at 80

Rod Holcomb, an Emmy-winning director renowned for his work on ER, Lost, China Beach, Wolf, and The Six Million Dollar Man, has passed away at the age of 80. The Directors Guild of America confirmed that Holcomb died on January 24 in Los Angeles after an extended illness.

Holcomb’s significant contributions to television direction were acknowledged by the Directors Guild of America. DGA President Lesli Linka Glatter expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing Holcomb’s impact on television direction and the creative rights of directors. She highlighted his influential role as a pilot director on shows like China Beach and ER, crediting him with bringing a more cinematic style to television through pioneering techniques like the use of Steadicam. Glatter also recognized Holcomb’s commitment to guild service, where he advocated for essential protections allowing television directors to bring their unique visions to life.

In a statement, Glatter said, “We will miss his warm, steadfast presence, and know his caring leadership and directorial mastery will continue inspiring directors for generations. Our deepest condolences to his wife, Jane, and his family.”

Rod Holcomb received four Emmy nominations throughout his illustrious career, with three for ER and one for China Beach. He also earned two DGA nominations for ER, one for China Beach, and another for The Pentagon Papers.

Holcomb’s extensive directorial portfolio includes episodes of Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders, Ice, Agent X, Blood & Oil, The Mentalist, Chicago Fire, The Good Wife, Numb3rs, The West Wing, Justified, NCIS: Los Angeles, Elementary, The Equalizer, Rizzoli & Isles, CSI: Miami, and The Quest, among others.

He is survived by his wife, Jane, son Josh, daughter Natasha, and five grandchildren.