‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ producer Matthew Wright’s cause of death revealed after he died at 52
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The official cause of death of longtime producer Matthew Wright has been revealed following his death at the age of 52.
Wright, who worked on several popular daytime television shows, died on October 30. He was best known for his 16-year tenure as an executive producer on 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show'.
Matthew Wright died from cardiopulmonary arrest
Now, PEOPLE, citing a death certificate, reported that ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ producer died from cardiopulmonary arrest.
The report also revealed that hypertension was listed as the underlying cause, while obstructive sleep apnea and Class II obesity were described as contributing factors.
Matthew Wright produced thousands of hours of television for daytime shows
Meanwhile, according to a GoFundMe fundraiser launched for Wright's family, he died “suddenly but peacefully in his sleep.”
The fundraising page also highlighted his professional journey and achievements, stating that his “exemplary career in daytime television began with an internship on ‘The Sally Jessy Raphael Show.’ From there, he went on to produce thousands of hours of television for daytime juggernauts like ‘The View,’ ‘The Jennifer Hudson Show’, and ‘The Drew Barrymore Show.’”
“During his sixteen-year tenure as an executive producer on ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show,’ Matt produced segments for the highest-profile celebrity guests including Oprah Winfrey, Meryl Streep, former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama,” it added.
Matthew Wright was remembered as an amazing guy by Ellen DeGeneres
Meanwhile, Wright's cause of death was revealed just a few days after Ellen DeGeneres paid an emotional tribute to him.
The 68-year-old comedian said in an Instagram post, “God, he was an amazing guy. He made me laugh; he would surprise me with things he did all the time.”
“He was smart, he was kind … I mean, everyone loved him. I loved him. And it’s just shocking, it’s shocking,” she noted, before recalling his bond with her talk show's co-executive producer and DJ Stephen "tWitch" Boss, who died in 2022.
“He and tWitch were so close. So now he and tWitch are together, dancing and laughing,” DeGeneres added.
Jennifer Hudson sent condolences to Matthew Wright's family
Jennifer Hudson also mourned Wright following his death. In her tribute, she wrote, “So saddened by the loss of Matt Wright, one of our former producers who helped launch @jenniferhudsonshow.”
“He made such a huge impact on so many people in this industry and beyond! My heart goes out to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Matt!” she concluded.
Andy Lassner recalled his last meeting with Matthew Wright
As per Andy Lassner, who also worked as an executive producer on 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show', he met Wright a few hours before his death.
His post read, "He was a brilliant producer and an even better human being. My heart breaks for his husband, Justin, his family, and all who loved him."
"I was so lucky to work beside Matt for so many years and to call him my friend," Lassner added.