Bernie Kahn, 'Bewitched' & 'Addams Family' Writer Dies at 90 — Inside His Legacy

Bernie Kahn contributed to more than 100 episodes of television through his talented writing. He passed away in Woodland Hills, California.

Bernie Kahn has died at the age of 90. The writer made an enormous contribution to television through the years, lending his talent to shows like "Bewitched," "The Addams Family," and "Get Smart."

Kahn's career spanned over many decades and held diverse elements as he worked as both writer and producer. He started his career in radio at NBC’s Monitor Radio before moving on to game shows and sitcoms.

DEATH CONFIRMED

The prolific writer's death was confirmed by the Kahn family's spokesperson. He died at the Motion Picture Home in Woodland Hills, California, on April 21, 2021.

Kahn leaves behind his wife, Elinor Burger, his three daughters, two step-children, and five grandchildren. The family is planning on holding a memorial service in Los Angels, but a date is yet to be confirmed.

MANY HATS

Kahn wore many hats within the television industry because not only was he a writer and producer, but he was also known as a creator. He was the mastermind behind the NBC sitcom “Joe & Valerie.”

Kahn also jumped onboard the monster sitcom "The Addams Family" during the two seasons that it was seen on television.

The writer also reeled in a few prestigious nominations as his name was thrown into the draw for two Writers Guild of America awards for his work in “Get Smart” and “My World and Welcome to It.”

BESIDES SHOW BUSINESS

Evidently talented when it came to the show business, Kahn's talents were multifaceted, as showcased by his other endeavors that stretched beyond entertainment work.

As a young man, Kahn started in the military. He served in the U.S. Army, and during his time at the Maryland base, Kahn hosted his own radio show. He was also a successful swimmer who represented the USA on several occasions.

"THE ADDAMS FAMILY"

The writer's work on shows like "The Addams Family" and "Bewitched" allowed him recognition as a talented and respected writer in Hollywood. Kahn worked with creator Sol Saks on "Bewitched."

The supernatural classic sitcom was originally inspired by two movies, namely, "I Married a Witch" and "Bell, Book, and Candle," and Kahn worked within that narrative for his penned episodes.

Kahn also jumped onboard the monster sitcom "The Addams Family" during the two seasons that it was seen on television before it got cut. Felix Silla, the actor who played Cousin Itt, credited the show with good writers at the time.

The show saw a premature end along with the other monster show airing at the time, "The Munster," as the network believed the viewers got tired of the monster narrative.