Nancylee Myatt, Creator of UPN’s ‘Social Studies’ and TV Producer, Dies at 68
```html Nancylee Myatt, 'Social Studies' Creator and Emmy Winner, Dies at 68 Nancylee Myatt, a television writer and producer best known for creating the UPN sitcom "Social Studies" and winning a Daytime Emmy Award for her work on the animated series "Teacher's Pet," has died. She passed away on Sept. 23 in Basel, Switzerland, at the age of 68. The cause of death was confirmed by her wife, Paige Williams Bernhardt, as a result of complications from Alzheimer's dementia.
A Career Spanning Sitcoms, Animation, and Teen Dramas Myatt's career in television spanned multiple genres, from live-action sitcoms to animated children's shows and teen dramas. She was diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment in 2021, a condition that progressed to Alzheimer’s dementia in 2023. According to a statement from Bernhardt, Myatt elected to "end her life peacefully and with dignity."
Born in 1957, Myatt was a card-carrying member of the Cherokee tribe in Oklahoma. She honed her craft at the University of California, Irvine, and initially pursued acting and playwriting before transitioning to television. Her early plays, including "Two on the Aisle for Murder" and "Slumber Party," showcased her talent for witty dialogue and engaging characters.
Early Career and Mentorship Under Norman Lear Myatt's breakthrough in television came after graduating from the Warner Bros. writers workshop in 1990. She became the only female staff writer on "The Powers That Be," a sitcom produced by legendary television writer Norman Lear. This experience proved invaluable, providing her with a strong foundation in comedic writing and the inner workings of the television industry. She also contributed to the final seasons of "Night Court," including its series finale, and worked on "The Five Mrs. Buchanans" and "Living Single."
“Nancylee was a sharp, insightful writer with a keen understanding of character,” says Dr. Amanda Lotz, Professor of Media Studies at the University of Michigan and author of "We Now Disrupt This Broadcast: How Cable Transformed Television and the Internet Revolutionized It All." “Her ability to move between genres, from adult sitcoms to animation aimed at children, highlights her versatility and adaptability in a rapidly changing television landscape.”
"Social Studies" and Other Notable Works In 1997, Myatt created "Social Studies," a teen sitcom for UPN produced by Dolly Parton’s Sandollar Productions. While the show was short-lived, it provided a platform for emerging talent and explored relevant themes for a young audience. She also contributed to "Recess," "Lloyd in Space," and "Teacher's Pet" for Disney TV Animation and ABC, winning a Daytime Emmy Award for her work on "Teacher's Pet." Other credits include "Trackers" for Sony TV and the pilot for "Nikki & Nora," which, though unaired, gained a cult following and inspired the webseries "The N&N Files."
Myatt also adapted the teen novels "Annie on My Mind" and "A Time for Dancing" for television and served as showrunner, co-executive producer, writer, and director on "South of Nowhere," a groundbreaking teen drama that explored LGBTQ+ themes. Her producing credits also include "Life with Roger," "Cleghorne!," and "Muddling Through."
Impact and Legacy “Myatt’s work on ‘South of Nowhere’ is particularly noteworthy,” says Dr. Emily Edwards, a cultural historian specializing in LGBTQ+ representation in media. “The show’s willingness to tackle complex issues surrounding sexuality and identity made it a significant cultural touchstone for many viewers, particularly during a time when LGBTQ+ representation on television was still relatively limited.”
Later in her career, Myatt was co-writing a teen pilot called "Cupidity" with Ralph Macchio. She is survived by her wife and writing partner, Paige Williams Bernhardt, as well as many friends and family members. Donations in her memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association Louisiana Chapter or the National Spay Alliance Foundation(NSAF Savannah).
Created "Social Studies" for UPN. Won a Daytime Emmy Award for "Teacher's Pet." Worked on "The Powers That Be," "Night Court," "Living Single," and "South of Nowhere." Adapted "Annie on My Mind" and "A Time for Dancing" for television.
Myatt's contributions to television, particularly her work in the teen genre, will be remembered for their wit, heart, and willingness to address important social issues. ```
Originally sourced from: Variety