Report: Emmy-Award Winning TV Producer Manny Coto Passes Away in Pasadena at 62

Emmy-winning television producer Manny Coto, known for his work on shows such as “24,” “Dexter,” and “Star Trek: Enterprise,” has died at the age of 62. Coto passed away on Sunday at his residence in Pasadena after a 13-month battle with pancreatic cancer, according to Deadline.com.

A family representative confirmed the news, Deadline.com reported, expressing that Manny Coto was a cherished member of the 20th Television and FX family for nearly two decades.

20th Television/FX issued a statement.

“Manny Coto was an incredibly talented writer, producer, and director who made an indelible mark on the television industry. His work on 24, American Horror Story, and Dexter will be remembered for years to come. We are deeply saddened by his passing and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” the network said.

Known for his creative brilliance and intellectual curiosity, Coto’s loyalty and friendship touched many lives.

In addition to his work on “24” and “Dexter,” Coto was involved in the production of “Star Trek: Enterprise” and “American Horror Story.” His profound love for “Star Trek” influenced his writing staff, often leaving them in stitches due to his impression of William Shatner’s Captain Kirk, Deadline.com reported.

Coto also created and ran the 2020 series “NeXt,” a fact-based thriller about the emergence of a deadly rogue artificial intelligence. The show explored the invasion of technology in our lives and its transformative effects. Another notable creation was Showtime’s “Odyssey 5,” which premiered in 2002 and centered around a Space Shuttle crew sent back in time to prevent Earth’s destruction.

Deadline said Coto was born in Havana on June 10, 1961, Coto and his mother fled the Castro regime, later reuniting with his father. Raised near Walt Disney World in Orlando, he began his filmmaking endeavors with a Super8 camera, directing horror films and an MCU-themed project. In 1983, Coto relocated to Los Angeles, where he initially worked on commercials before venturing into filmmaking.

Coto’s early work included directing “Playroom,” “Cover-Up,” and “Star Kid.” He also made the horror film “Dr. Giggles,” which gained a cult following. His unproduced screenplay, “The Ticking Man,” co-written with Brian Helgeland, became the first feature screenplay to sell for $1 million. This led to Helgeland’s success, winning an Oscar for “L.A. Confidential.”

Manny Coto is survived by his wife Robin, their four children, his mother, sister, brother, and eight nieces and nephews, according to Deadline.com.