B. Donald Grant (Bud Grant), Former CBS Entertainment President, Dead At Age 79

B. Donald Grant died on July 1 at age 79.

Known as Bud, Grant started his career at NBC in 1956 and held posts at the TODAY show as well as management positions at the network's daytime and late-night units. Among the shows at NBC that Grant played a role in developing DAYS OF OUR LIVES.

Grant joined CBS in 1972 as vice president of daytime programming, replacing Paul Rauch. The network successfully launched THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS a year later.

Grant moved into primetime in 1977 and became president from 1980 until 1987. CBS primetime hits during that time included DALLAS and KNOTS LANDING.

A recipient of many industry honors, Grant was a past governor of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences and a former member of the board of directors of the Hollywood Radio & Television Society.

Survivors include Grant's wife, Linda Fernandez, and children: David, a vice president at CBS; Kate Grant; Val DeNoia and Michele Spaulding.

A memorial will be held on August 30. Further information can be found at Bud Grant Memorial.

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