Remembering Stephen J. Cannell

As a child growing up in the 80's, how can I forget such great TV shows such as The Greatest American Hero, The A-Team, 21 Jumpstreet, and a host of others? Stephen J. Cannell, creator of these shows, passed away last week from cancer at age 69. I was in shock.

I was in great shock, because I just finished reading a book he wrote called White Sister. White Sister is based on Cannell's protagonist, Detective Shane Scully. The underground world of hip-hop to the streets, to dirty cops, to his wife's accusation of murder all involved in the story, is entangled in this smoothly written thriller set in Los Angeles. Having lived in California for some time and visiting L.A., I knew the areas quite vividly, just the way Cannell wrote his scenes.

I commend Cannell for his profound storytelling in the thriller genre, mainly because he was dyslexic. He did not have formal school training as in college, but wrote feverishly everyday. You may visit his site at www.cannell.com for more on his story.

Stephen Cannell, thank you for memorable stories in your books and especially TV. The action, suspense and romance will never be forgotten. I read great things about him regarding his willingness to help those wanting to become writers. In fact, if you go to his site, he has a four-part series on writing.

Much prayers go out to his family and friends...