A Legacy of Leadership and Passion
James Stark Bennett II, affectionately known as Jamie, passed away on July 6 at the age of 78 after a courageous battle with cancer. His life was marked by a deep commitment to the entertainment industry, community service, and personal growth. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn, their three children, extended family, and countless friends who admired his contributions.
Bennett's career in television began in San Francisco and Chicago, where he worked across both radio and television stations. His journey eventually led him to Los Angeles, where he became vice president and general manager of KCBS-TV. This role laid the foundation for his future success in the entertainment world.
Pioneering Television and Media Success
In 1988, Bennett joined the Walt Disney Company as a senior vice president at Buena Vista Television Productions. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in launching several iconic programs. Among these were the renowned talk show "Live with Regis and Kathie Lee," the acclaimed film review series "Siskel & Ebert," and the popular game show "Win, Lose or Draw." These shows not only entertained millions but also set new standards for television programming.
After his time at Disney, Bennett took on the role of president and CEO of ACI, a Los Angeles-based television and film distribution company. In 1995, when ACI was acquired by UK-based Pearson Television, Bennett relocated to London. There, he led global production efforts before returning to Los Angeles, where he continued to shape the media landscape.
Expanding Horizons Beyond Entertainment
During his time in the UK, Bennett devoted himself to volunteer work and mentoring emerging businesses through Pasadena Angels, an early-stage investment group that provided crucial funding for startups. His leadership extended beyond entertainment into architecture, where he served as chief operating officer at the Southern California Institute of Architecture. His efforts helped secure a permanent home for the institution in LA’s Arts District, ensuring its future for generations.
Bennett’s passion for the arts also led him to the Ojai Music Festival, where he served on the board and later became president and CEO for five transformative years until 2020. His dedication to the festival left a lasting impact on the cultural scene in Southern California.
Diverse Board Memberships and Community Involvement
Throughout his career, Bennett served on numerous boards, including the W. Alton Jones Foundation, National Environmental Trust, Phoenix Pictures, St. Nicholas Theater in Chicago, Marlborough School, UC Berkeley Alumni Association, and the Television Advisory Board of the Annenberg School at USC. His involvement reflected a lifelong commitment to education, the environment, and the arts.
After retiring, Bennett and his wife, Carolyn, settled on an 11-acre farm in Ojai, a peaceful town about 80 miles northwest of Los Angeles. This tranquil setting became his permanent home base, where he could enjoy the simple pleasures of rural life.
Early Life and Educational Foundations
Bennett’s journey began on June 1, 1947, in New York City. He attended UC Berkeley, where he chaired a student-run summer program in Washington, DC, and launched his media career as program director of the university’s radio station. This early experience sparked his passion for the entertainment industry.
Armed with an MBA from Harvard Business School, Bennett returned to New York to join CBS, marking the start of a long and influential media career that spanned decades.
A Lasting Impact and Memorial Donations
In addition to his wife and children, Bennett is survived by grandchildren, a sister and her husband, and a niece with her daughter. Those wishing to honor his memory can make donations to the Ojai Music Festival or the Jamie Bennett Community Fund, PO Box 185, Ojai, CA 93024. His legacy continues to inspire those who knew him and the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey.