HGTV Executive Loren Ruch Dies at 55 After Leukemia Battle

Los Angeles, CA — Loren Ruch, the head of content at HGTV and co-host of “HGTV House Party,” passed away on June 12 at the age of 55 after battling acute myeloid leukemia. Ruch’s death marks a significant loss in the entertainment industry, where he was a beloved figure for over two decades.

At the time of his passing, Ruch was surrounded by his husband, David Salas, and close friends. He played a vital role in the growth of HGTV, responsible for popular programs such as “Property Brothers: Forever Home,” “Celebrity IOU,” and “My Lottery Dream Home.” His influence extended across numerous series during his tenure, shaping the network into a leader in lifestyle programming.

Ruch began his career at HGTV in 2005 as an executive producer. He quickly climbed the ranks, first serving as the director of original and special event programming, then as vice president of development and programming. After the merger of Scripps Networks with Discovery, and later with WarnerMedia, he was named head of content in January 2023.

Channing Dungey, chairman of Warner Bros. Television Group, shared condolences in a memo to staff, highlighting Ruch’s unwavering dedication and integrity. “Loren was known for building not only hit shows but also enduring relationships,” Dungey stated. “His impact stretched far beyond the screen, making people feel valued and inspired.”

In addition to his professional accolades, Ruch was recognized for his commitment to inclusivity and representation. He served as a board member of Live Out Loud, a nonprofit organization supporting LGBTQ+ youth. Ruch is survived by his husband, David Salas; his mother, Dolly Norris; father, Larry Ruch; and brother, Geoffrey Ruch.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation or Be the Match in honor of Ruch’s legacy.