David Kendall, a filmmaker and producer best known for his work on the beloved 1990s sitcom Boy Meets World, has passed away at the age of 68.
Kendall, who was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on October 4, 1957, played a pivotal role in shaping the coming-of-age series. He served as a director, writer, and executive producer on the show, and his influence extended to numerous other popular sitcoms, including Growing Pains, Hannah Montana, iCarly, and Melissa & Joey. He also directed the 2005 comedy Dirty Deeds, starring Milo Ventimiglia.
The news of his death was shared by former Boy Meets World stars Danielle Fishel, Will Friedle, and Rider Strong, who currently host the Pod Meets World podcast. In a heartfelt statement posted on Instagram, they wrote: “To say that David Kendall was instrumental in the creation of Boy Meets World would be an understatement. He directed, wrote and executive produced our show, but also helped mold some of TV’s most memorable sitcoms, from Growing Pains to Hannah Montana. In addition to helping develop Danielle, Will & Rider’s young creative voices (both as a co-worker and later mentor), he worked with stars like Austin Butler, Zendaya, Miley Cyrus and the Jonas brothers in the early stages of their careers.”
The statement continued: “We are devastated to lose such an important person in our lives, both professionally and personally. We all kept in touch with David over the past 30 years, and are honored that we were able to share his incredible personality with our Pod Meets World listeners. We have lost a vital piece of our family - but we ask that the next time you watch the show, especially Seasons 2 & 3 (when he served as Showrunner), you think of our beloved Kendall. We love you, David. Rest in peace. No notes.”
Kendall’s cousin, Lukas, responded to the tribute, expressing his shock and sadness: “Thank you for this message. He was my cousin and such a dear man. I am in shock and so very sad.”
After graduating from Wesleyan University in 1979 with degrees in film studies and government, Kendall moved to Los Angeles, where he built a career primarily in teen sitcoms and films. His extensive credits also include Smart Guy, Zoey 101, Victorious, Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide, Big Time Rush, Imagination Movers, and The Really Loud House.
In addition to his producing and directing work, Kendall was a talented screenwriter. He wrote the scripts for the 2002 teen comedy The New Guy, starring DJ Qualls, Eliza Dushku, and Zooey Deschanel, and the 2010 film Revenge of the Bridesmaids, featuring Raven-Symoné and JoAnna García.
No cause of death has been announced at this time.
