Emmy-Winning Writer Nancylee Myatt Dies After Alzheimer’s Battle

Nancylee Myatt, an Emmy-winning writer and producer, has died. She was 68 years old. Myatt chose to end her life peacefully in Basel, Switzerland on September 23. Her wife, Paige Williams Bernhardt, confirmed the news.

Myatt had been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment in 2021. This later progressed to an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis in 2023. Her career spanned decades and included work on popular shows like Night Court and Living Single.

A Pioneering Career in Television

Myatt broke ground early in her career. She was the only female writer on the staff of The Powers That Be. That 1992 political comedy was executive produced by her mentor, Norman Lear.

Her work on the final two seasons of the original Night Court was significant. She also wrote and produced for the CBS comedy The 5 Mrs. Buchanans. According to The Hollywood Reporter, she won an NAACP award for her work on the Fox sitcom Living Single.

Creator and Advocate for Diverse Stories

Myatt was a creator as well as a writer. She launched and served as showrunner for the teen drama South of Nowhere. She also created the 2004 cop show pilot Nikki & Nora, which developed a dedicated cult following online.

She and her wife moved to New Orleans in 2010. Myatt often cited the city as a source of inspiration for her writing. In a 2017 interview, she said the city’s stories fueled her creativity.

Nancylee Myatt’s legacy is one of pioneering storytelling and advocacy. Her work on shows like Living Single broke barriers for representation. She will be remembered for her significant contributions to television and her courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Thought you’d like to know

What was Nancylee Myatt’s cause of death?

Nancylee Myatt ended her life peacefully after a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. She had been diagnosed with the condition in 2023 after earlier signs of cognitive impairment.

What shows did Nancylee Myatt work on?

She had writing and producing credits on *Night Court*, *Living Single*, and *The 5 Mrs. Buchanans*. She also created the teen drama *South of Nowhere* and the cult-favorite pilot *Nikki & Nora*.

Did Nancylee Myatt win any major awards?

Yes, she won a Daytime Emmy in 2001 for the animated series *Teacher’s Pet*. She also received an NAACP award for her work on the popular sitcom *Living Single*.

What was her role on *South of Nowhere*?

Myatt launched the series and served as its co-executive producer and showrunner. She was also a writer and director for the show’s first two seasons on the Noggin network.

Was Nancylee Myatt involved in any charitable work?

In her memory, donations can be made to the Louisiana chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Support can also be directed to the National Spay Alliance Foundation.

Trusted Sources: The Hollywood Reporter