Murray Chercover, former president and CEO of CTV has died from
complications following pneumonia.

Broadcaster Magazine has written an obituary, here is an excerpt:

“Chercover also directed his first television production [while in New York City] — a drama for the Louis G. Cowan agency — before returning to Canada to join the newly-formed CBC Television in 1952. During the next eight years, his credits at the CBC included dramas for General Motors Presents, Procter & Gamble’s On Camera, The Ford Motor Company’s Playbill, and Space Command.

“In 1960, Chercover again sought new challenges when he left CBC to join Baton Broadcasting’s newly licensed private station, CFTO-TV. From his first job as Executive Producer for all production, he went on to assume the titles of Director of Programming for CFTO in 1961, and then Vice-President of Programming later the same year.”

“When the CTV Network was formed in 1961, he chaired its Program Committee. When the CTV affiliates acquired ownership of the Network in 1966, Murray was appointed Executive Vice President and General Manager of CTV. By 1967 he became its President and Chief Operating Officer; in 1968 he became President and Managing Director. Finally, Chercover was made President and CEO in 1986.”

“During his 24 years at CTV, Chercover oversaw the launch of many famous programs including W5 and morning television pioneer Canada AM.”