Christie Brinkley’s father, Don Brinkley, the famous and legendary television producer and writer, died yesterday. He was 91 years old. Don Brinkley co created and produced “Medical Center” with Chad Everett in the 60s and 70s, and “Trapper John MD” in the 80s. He wrote over 400 teleplays for such classic and long running shows as “The Untouchables,” “The Fugitive,” “Have Gun, Will Travel,” “Kraft Suspense Theatre,” “The FBI,” “The Virginian,” “Ben Casey,” “Bat Masterson,” “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.,” “Rawhide,” “Ironside,” “The Name of the Game,” and others. You can look at his credits in awe: there was almost no TV in the 1960s that didn’t have Don Brinkley’s name on it.
Don Brinkley was married to Christie’s mom, Marge, for 55 years. He adopted Christie when they married, and she considered him her father. For most of their marriage, the Brinkleys
divided their time between Hawaii and Beverly Hills. But in the last few years, Christie moved them out to Sag Harbor, Long Island, so she could take care of them. Don Brinkley is also survived by Christie’s brother, Gregory, an innovative nutritionist, and several grandchildren including Alexa Ray Joel, daughter of Christie and Billy Joel. Condolences to Christie and her family. Her parents’ story is one of the rare ones in Hollywood–a great marriage, family, and lots of good work of which to be proud. It’s a grand legacy.
