Alan Landsburg

Alan William Landsburg (May 10, 1933 – August 13, 2014) was an American television writer, producer, and director. He was the founder and CEO of Alan Landsburg Productions and the Landsburg Company and was involved in producing over fifty movies of the week. He had over 2,000 hours of television production experience.

Biography

Early life Alan William Landsburg was born on May 10, 1933, in White Plains, New York. His father was Harry Landsburg and his mother, Fannie (Koslowe) Landsburg.

Career Drawing upon his experience at the Army Radio Network, he embarked upon a career in writing and directing television programs in Manhattan, later relocating to California in the 1960s. Along with David L. Wolper, he pioneered the television documentary series format. His credits include: Biography – wrote, directed, and/or produced 65 episodes hosted by Mike Wallace.

He was also a prolific executive producer of made-for-television movies, many of which were based on true stories and tackled important social issues. Of note are: Bill -- Mickey Rooney won an Emmy and a Golden Globe Award for his portrayal of Bill Sackter, who was institutionalized from the age of seven and struggles to re-integrate into society when he is released almost 45 years later. Adam — Recounted the story of Adam Walsh, who was abducted from a Florida shopping center. The film brought attention to how kidnapped children were poorly tracked by federal government agencies. It prompted the formation of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and led to the passage of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act in July 2006. Because of his outspoken advocacy on behalf of missing and exploited children, Adam's father, John Walsh, has become a public figure, and is now perhaps best known as host of the Fox television show America's Most Wanted. The Ryan White Story The Landsburg Company subsequently signed a deal with David Auerbach, former vice president and secretary of the ALP studio.

Books 1974 In Search of Ancient Mysteries 1975 The Outer Space Connection 1976 In Search of Lost Civilizations ("In Search of Lost Civilisations" in the UK) 1976 In Search of Extraterrestrials 1977 In Search of Magic and Witchcraft 1977 In Search of Myths and Monsters 1977 In Search of Strange Phenomena 1978 In Search of Missing Persons 1978 Secrets of the Bermuda Triangle 1978 The Insects Are Coming 1978 Between the Wars 1978 In Search of Lost Civilizations, Extraterrestrials, Magic and Witchcraft, Strange Phenomena, Myths and Monsters (a "Best Of" compilation hardcover) 1979 Death Encounters (with Charles Fiore)

Horse racing He retired from the television business in 2001 and pursued his love of horse racing full-time. He owned, raced, and bred more than four hundred thoroughbreds from 1976 to 2014. In 2002, he served as a commissioner and chairman of the California Horse Racing Board.