Merv Griffin Dies at 82 From Prostate Cancer

Merv Griffin was initially diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1996. He made good progress against the cancer but then his condition declined rapidly, and by Friday he was reported to be in grave condition.

Merv Griffin passed away August 12th 2007 Photo courtesy: biography.com

(LOS ANGELES, Ca.) - Merv Griffin, a true pioneer in the television industry, passed away Sunday morning lengthy battle with prostate cancer. He was 82.

Friends say he impacted almost every corner of TV programming for decades. If he wasn't in front of a crowd, he was behind the camera or behind the scenes, credited with shaping the television world.

Griffin began his TV career over half a century ago. His number one hit "I've Got a Lovely Bunch of Coconuts" propelled his career in 1950.

He launched Jeopardy! in the 1960's, and the show still brings good ratings even today. The broadcasting pioneer sold his shows in 1986, as well as Merv Griffin Enterprises. They went for a reported value of $250 million, and a share of future profits. It was reported that Griffin made $80 million in royalties alone for composing the theme song to Jeopardy!.

Merv Griffin was initially diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1996. He made good progress against the cancer but then his condition declined rapidly, and by Friday he was reported to be in grave condition.

Merv Griffin is survived by his only son, Anthony.