William Milton Asher, born on August 8, 1921, and passed away on July 16, 2012, was a multi-talented individual who made a significant impact in the world of television and film. As a producer, director, and screenwriter, Asher was one of the most prolific early television directors, having produced or directed over two dozen series during his illustrious career.
Asher's journey in television began with the introduction of the sitcom Our Miss Brooks, which was adapted from a radio show. He then went on to direct I Love Lucy by 1952, and his early success earned him the reputation as an "early wunderkind of TV-land." In fact, he was even credited with "inventing" the sitcom in one magazine article.
Throughout his career, Asher was nominated for several prestigious awards, including four Emmy Awards, winning once for directing Bewitched in 1966. He was also nominated for the DGA Award in 1951 for I Love Lucy.
In his personal life, Asher was married four times. His first marriage was to actress Danny Sue Nolan, with whom he had two children, and they divorced in 1961. He then married actress Elizabeth Montgomery in 1963, just before the start of Bewitched, and they had three children together before divorcing in 1973. Asher's third marriage was to actress Joyce Bulifant, and they adopted her son, actor and director John Mallory Asher, before eventually divorcing in 1993. His fourth and final marriage was to Meredith Coffin Asher in 1998.
Asher's life and career were marked by his dedication to his craft and his contributions to the world of television and film. His legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and industry professionals alike, and his work remains an important part of the history of American television.
