Steven Bochco, co-creator of iconic shows NYPD Blue, Hill Street Blues, passes away aged 74

Steven Bochco, the iconic producer and writer, known for creating shows like NYPD Blue and Hill Street Blues has passed away at the age of 74. He was battling a rare form of leukemia for several years, as reported by Variety .

“On behalf of the Bochco family, we write to let you know that Steven passed away on Sunday morning, April 1st 2018 at 10:20 am. Steven fought cancer with strength, courage, grace and his unsurpassed sense of humor. He died peacefully in his sleep with is family close by. Details regarding memorial service will be forthcoming. In the meantime, the family asks for privacy during this time,” read the statement issued by his family, according to a report by E News .

Bochco is credited with redefining the television landscape by introducing hour-long, serialised content that was edgy and pushed the boundaries. His work is viewed as a precursor to the strong, subject-driven shows of today. In a career spanning 20 years he created several successful shows like LA Law, and Doogie Howser, M.D., which introduced the talents of Neil Patrick Harris to the screen. David E Kelley and David Milch were also his finds, who later went on to lead the television industry with Friends.

His death saw messages of condolences pour out from various personalities and fans, with the former NYPD Blue star Sharon Lawrence tweeting, “It was his vision, style, taste and tenacity that made me love watching TV. It was being on #NYPDBlue that made me love working on TV. Thank you and rest well Steven Bochco. You were one of a kind.” Debra Messing posted, “So sad to hear of Steven Bochco’s passing. He was a pioneer, a gentleman, and gave me my first job in prime time tv. Rest well, sir. You will be missed,” and Joss Whedom said, “Absolutely one of the biggest influences on Buffy (and me) was HILL STREET BLUES. Complex, unpredictable and unfailingly humane. Steven Bochco changed television, more than once. He’s a legend. All love to his family, R.I.P., and thank you,” in a tweet.