Loren Ruch, HGTV head of content and co-host of “HGTV House Party,” died June 12, 2025, at age 55 following a battle with acute myeloid leukemia. He was surrounded by his husband and close friends at the time of his death.
Ruch had served as head of content for the lifestyle network since January 2023, overseeing popular programming including “My Lottery Dream Home,” “Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge,” “Celebrity IOU,” “Battle on the Beach” and the Emmy-nominated “A Very Brady Renovation.” His television career spanned three decades across multiple networks and genres.
Channing Dungey, chair of Warner Bros. Television Group, announced Ruch’s death in a memo to staff members. Dungey described Ruch as an exceptional leader who inspired those around him, recognized for his steadfast commitment, genuine kindness, and strong sense of integrity. She highlighted that his achievements went beyond creating successful shows, as he also forged lasting connections, acting as a mentor, supporter, and loyal friend to many colleagues throughout the television industry.
The executive’s impact extended far beyond television programming, according to the company memo. Dungey described him as the vital link in every room, someone who had an exceptional ability to make others feel acknowledged, appreciated, and motivated to excel. She emphasized that for Ruch, success was never just about ratings or recognition—it was about people, nurturing teams that felt like families, and creating lifelong friendships.
Ruch joined HGTV as a top programming executive in 2008, initially working with the network since 2005 when he started as an executive producer. During his early tenure, he oversaw production of series including “HGTV Dream Home,” “HGTV Green Home,” “Rose Parade” and “White House Christmas.” He also produced shows like “Brother vs. Brother” and the HGTV Dream Home specials.
Before his promotion to head of content, Ruch served as Group Senior Vice President of Development and Production for four years and previously held the position of VP Development and Programming for HGTV, DIY Network and Great American Country. His responsibilities extended across multiple Discovery-owned cable channels, including Food Network, Travel Channel, Cooking Channel and supervising additional programming for Food Network and Fine Living.
Prior to his work in cable television, Ruch spent a decade as senior producer for Fox’s “Good Day LA” and the nationally syndicated “Good Day Live,” where he received five Emmy Awards. He launched his television career in daytime talk and game shows, contributing to programs such as “Home & Family,” “Love Connection,” and “Family Feud.”
The television executive also served as a board member of Live Out Loud, a nonprofit organization supporting LGBTQ+ youth by connecting them with LGBTQ+ professionals in their community. Dungey described him as a tireless champion of inclusivity and representation throughout his career.
HGTV personalities and industry colleagues paid tribute to Ruch across social media platforms following news of his death. Bobby Berk, “Queer Eye” alum who appeared as a celebrity judge on “Rock the Block,” shared a photo with Ruch on Instagram, describing him as always being such a warm light in a dark world who will be missed by many.
“Help! I Wrecked My House” host Jasmine Roth noted that to know Ruch was to love him, describing him as having one of those personalities that people gravitate toward. She characterized him as fun-loving and one of the most creative people she had met. Christina Haack from “Flip or Flop” and “Christina on the Coast” called him “one of the rare ones” and indicated everyone adored him.
“Revealed” host Veronica Valencia expressed gratitude for Ruch believing in her and seeing her potential, describing him as not just a network executive but a mentor, confidant and protector of creative dreams. “Property Brothers” star Jonathan Scott described struggling with the loss of his friend, calling Ruch one of the great ones.
Acute myeloid leukemia, the condition that claimed Ruch’s life, represents a cancer of the blood and bone marrow affecting myeloid cells. Medical sources note that AML is the most frequently diagnosed form of acute leukemia in adults, but they did not reveal how long Ruch had been dealing with the illness.
Ruch is survived by his husband, David Salas, his mother, Dolly Norris, his father, Larry Ruch, and his brother, Geoffrey Ruch. In place of flowers, contributions can be made to the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation or the Be the Match organization in his honor. The family has not yet shared details regarding funeral or memorial services.
