A key executive from the well-known daytime talk show, Sherri, has tragically passed away in a suspected suicide, according to reports from RadarOnline.com. The untimely death of this top executive occurred during an ongoing investigation into the show’s missing funds and unpaid studio rent.
Sherri Shepherd’s show, “Sherri,” launched in September 2022. However, more than a year later, a shocking and heartbreaking development emerged. On February 13, it was revealed that Matt Uzzle, 50, was found dead at his New York home.
Uzzle had previously managed “The Wendy Williams Show” and continued in an executive role overseeing production when Shepherd took over the syndicated slot with “Sherri” in 2022.
Debmar-Mercury, the parent company of the show, has initiated an investigation into Uzzle’s handling of the budget. The investigation was prompted by the discovery of unpaid rent at New York’s Chelsea Studios dating back to September 2023, as reported by Page Six.
At Sherri, Uzzle was primarily tasked with overseeing production and handling budgetary concerns.
Complaints have recently emerged regarding issues with petty cash in different departments. These complaints have caused concerns among the staff about the possible shutdown of the show, leading Debmar-Mercury to intervene.
According to an insider from Sherri, there was genuine worry among the staff that the show would be canceled. However, Debmar had to intervene to prevent such a scenario.
Uzzle was reportedly given a few days to gather his paperwork after being confronted about the budget issues earlier this year.
According to a source, Uzzle’s death is believed to be a result of suicide, although authorities have chosen not to provide any further comments on the case due to the ongoing investigation.
Debmar-Mercury has recently hired a law firm to assist in conducting an internal investigation into the unexpected passing of the Sherri executive.
A representative for the parent company announced this week that they have enlisted the services of Morgan Lewis to conduct an investigation into the matter. While awaiting the results of the investigation, the company has decided to refrain from providing any further comments.
During the February 15 episode of “Sherri,” Shepherd paid a heartfelt tribute to Uzzle, honoring his memory on air.
Uzzle, a highly skilled professional, received a daytime Emmy nomination in 2016 for his exceptional contributions to “The Wendy Williams Show.” He is renowned for his work on other popular productions such as “The Montel Williams Show” and “Maury.”
As previously reported by RadarOnline.com, Uzzle’s death, which is suspected to be a suicide, occurred this month, over a year after the premiere of Sherri in September 2022. Sherri is the successor to The Wendy Williams Show.
Shepherd stepped in for Wendy Williams on multiple occasions during the final season of The Wendy Williams Show when Williams was unable to host due to health issues. This led to significant tension between the two hosts when Shepherd was officially chosen as Williams’s replacement.