David N. Kendall

My writing partner, Dave Hoge, and I, had the extreme good fortune to know David since the golden days of Growing Pains. Seeing someone so young with that much responsibility, take his job so seriously while still having fun, probably had more impact on us than we’ve ever truly processed. He made time to mentor us by noting our specs when we were “runners”, then helped us make up time on our schedules with his deft directing when we were show runners. We’re so grateful that our paths crisscrossed over the years. His energy was off the charts! As challenging as our series were, David never sacrificed quality and always protected the comedy. He once turned to us in the middle of a stressful time crunch and said, “They don’t air the schedule” and got the shot we needed. On time. Pro! “Cut, cut, cut!” We will miss him terribly.

Back in the late 80s, David and I were writers together on "Growing Pains." It was my first series and we instantly became friends. I was only on the job a few weeks when the producers announced we were all going to Maui to film a special. Here are just a few photos from that trip. Whenever I look at them, I am reminded of David's immense personality, humor, and generosity. Working on the show was a golden time and David, so insightful, often remarked on that even then.

Working with David as he directed multiple episodes of shows (since 1993), the producers always knew we’d get the "best of the best" on the screen when he was at the helm. No one was more prepared (ie. “Prudy as a Giant” on Knight Squad) or more dedicated to directing and delivering the funniest episode, with the biggest production value, on time and on budget. His vibrant energy was infectious on set and challenged all of us to excel. His episodes were often the season’s favorites.

Working with David when he was the Show Runner and Writer, as well as a Director, (as his Producer on The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia) was a total joy and gift for me. I saw him using his multi-hyphenate talents daily as he collaborated with each member of the team at every level, from PAs to crew members to writers and producers…he truly cared about each person and their ideas mattered to him. It’s said that “working closely with the right person can deeply inspire you, transform your perspective, and unlock extraordinary results.” That was what it was like working with David. He was one of the kindest, most generous, funny, and creative people I’ve ever known. I miss his smile, his caring nature, his sense of humor, and how he could always make me laugh.

Over the years, David has made an extraordinary and positive impact on the lives and careers of so many people, including me. I’m forever grateful.

09/12/2019 A candid photograph from the set of The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia which I co-created with Mario Lopez and on which David was my fellow executive producer. From left to right: Eva Longoria, Carl Lauten, David Kendall, Seth Kurland, and Carolita Blythe. We’re watching a rehearsal — well, some us are. I seem to be staring down at my script. At least David is adjusting the volume on his cans so he can hear the actors better. David and I worked side by side every day on Ashley Garcia, and I consider it one of the great gifts of my career that I got to do that with him. Our wonderful director of photography, John (“Johnny”) Simmons, captured this without any of us knowing he was taking the picture.