Telemundo Exec José Suárez Dies at 55

José Suárez, a 55-year-old Telemundo executive, died in a helicopter crash in Kenya on August 19. Suárez was the president and general manager of Telemundo's TV stations in Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Myers-Naples, Florida.

Suárez had a long and distinguished career in television, working for NBCUniversal in multiple roles for more than 20 years. He previously led stations in San Antonio, Sacramento, Fresno, Salt Lake City, and Las Vegas, and had also worked as director of creative services and programming for NBC's WTVJ in Miami.

The helicopter crash occurred in Samburu County in northeastern Kenya, and Suárez was one of four Americans killed in the accident. NBCU Newsgroup Chairman César Conde, NBCU Local Chairman Valari Staab, and Telemundo Station Group President José Cancela released a statement expressing their condolences, describing Suárez as an exceptional colleague who cared deeply about his teams and the communities they served.

Suárez had received numerous awards for his work, including a Suncoast Chapter Emmy award and three Cleveland chapter Emmy awards. He had also worked in various roles for media outlets in Florida, Ohio, and Texas before joining NBCUniversal.

## Why it matters The death of José Suárez is a significant loss for the television industry, particularly for NBCUniversal and Telemundo. Suárez's experience and leadership had a profound impact on the stations he led, and his passing will be felt by his colleagues and the communities they serve. The incident also highlights the risks and dangers associated with air travel, particularly in remote or unfamiliar territories.

The statement from NBCU Newsgroup Chairman César Conde, NBCU Local Chairman Valari Staab, and Telemundo Station Group President José Cancela reflects the high regard in which Suárez was held by his colleagues and peers. As the television industry continues to evolve and grow, the loss of experienced and dedicated professionals like Suárez will be deeply felt.