William Asher, ‘I Love Lucy’ and ‘Bewitched’ Director, Dead at 90

Prolific and influential television and film writer/director William (Bill) Asher passed away in a Palm Beach board and care facility Monday, July 16, with his wife, Meredith, by his side. He was 90.

The industry icon’s death was reported by MyDesert.com, which notes that Asher is survived by his daughters Liane Sears and Rebecca Asher; sons Brian, Bill Jr., Robert and John; four step-children; nine grandchildren and eight step-grandchildren.

Asher earned the nickname “the man who invented the sitcom” by taking over directorial duties on the iconic sitcom ‘I Love Lucy’ in 1952, helming episodes for the better part of five seasons. Then, in 1964, he produced and directed ‘Bewitched’ with then wife Elizabeth Montgomery. In 1966, the show earned Asher his first and only Emmy.

Over the course of his illustrious career, Asher contributed to programs like ‘Make Room for Daddy,’ ‘The Twilight Zone,’ ‘’Gidget,’ ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ and ‘Alice.’ In the movie realm, he directed multiple Beach Blanket Bingo comedies starring Annette Funicello and Frankie Avalon.

In 2003, Asher received a star on the famous Palm Springs Walk of Stars.