TV Director Ralph W. Hemecker Dies at 65, Known for 'Blue Bloods' and 'Once Upon a Time'

TV director, writer, and producer Ralph W. Hemecker has died at the age of 65. According to Variety, Hemecker died on July 10 at his home in Glendale, California, a fact his family confirmed to Deadline. His family did not disclose a cause of death.

Hemecker built a prolific career directing for television across multiple genres and decades.

What shows did Ralph W. Hemecker work on?

His extensive filmography includes foundational genre work on Fox's "The X-Files" and "Millennium," as well as episodes of "Ghost Whisperer," "Numb3rs," "The Vampire Diaries," "Nikita," "V," and "The Flash." He directed the Fox pilot "Roar," which starred a then-unknown Heath Ledger. A defining chapter began in 2000 when he directed the TNT TV movie "Witchblade," executive produced by Oliver Stone. That film's success led to the "Witchblade" television series, which Hemecker served as showrunner, executive producer, and writer for throughout its two-season run from 2001 to 2002.

How are colleagues remembering him?

Colleagues from "Once Upon a Time" shared heartfelt tributes. Star Lana Parrilla wrote on Instagram, "Ralph Hemecker was one of the kindest, most generous souls I've ever known. His contribution to 'Once Upon a Time' was immeasurable and he will be missed more than words can express."

What was his career background?

Born on June 12, 1961, Hemecker studied English at Bucknell University and later took filmmaking classes at New York University. He started in production and post-production. One of his earliest directing roles was on Fox's "America's Most Wanted," where he directed dramatic reenactments. He also worked on the series "Silk Stalkings" and "Renegade" early in his career. In 2000, he founded the production company Mythic Films. Hemecker also directed several television movies, including titles in the "Nora Roberts" adaptation series.

He is survived by his two stepdaughters, his father, sister, brother, three nephews, one niece, and a great-nephew. He was predeceased by his mother. His family stated that a celebration of his life will be announced at a later date.