Former Ellen Executive Producer Matthew Wright Dies; DeGeneres Posts Tearful Video Calling Him Glue to Entire Family

Wright’s death and family fundraiser

Wright died Friday at age 52, according to reports. A GoFundMe campaign for his family described his death as an “unfathomable tragedy.” The campaign says Wright died while working remotely in Los Angeles, while his family is in New York. It also says Wright and his husband were laid off this summer, and asks for donations toward the cost of bringing him home, a funeral and a memorial.

DeGeneres recalls his impact

Wright worked on The Ellen DeGeneres Show from 2006 until it ended in 2022. DeGeneres posted a tearful video on Instagram Monday, remembering him as funny, smart and kind.

She also said Wright had been close with former show DJ Stephen “tWitch” Boss, who died in 2022. DeGeneres said she believed the two were reunited in the afterlife, “dancing and laughing.” The tribute included clips of Wright, including a “Strong Opinions With Matt” segment about restaurants bringing too many appetizers.

Colleagues share tributes

Lassner called Wright a brilliant producer and a better human being. He also remembered Wright’s close care for his mother and his love for friends, and said his heart broke for Wright’s husband, Justin, family and friends. Former The Real co-host Loni Love also paid tribute on Facebook, writing that she was devastated and heartbroken to hear of Wright’s death.