Loren Ruch, the respected head of content for HGTV and beloved co‑host of HGTV House Party, passed away on June 12, 2025, at age 55 after battling acute myeloid leukemia. In the wake of this news, industry leaders from Warner Bros. Discovery to interior designers have publicly mourned the loss. Media outlets confirm that Loren Ruch’s dedication and talent profoundly shaped HGTV’s programming—making this moment a time to honor his remarkable contributions.
A Career Built on Passion and Expertise
After joining HGTV in 2005 as an executive producer, Loren Ruch swiftly ascended through the ranks. By 2008, he was directing original and special-event programming; in 2011, he became VP of development and programming. Following Discovery’s acquisition of Scripps in 2018, Ruch rose to group senior vice president of production and development. Finally, in January 2023, he was named head of content for HGTV. Loren Ruch played pivotal roles in launching and guiding hit shows like My Lottery Dream Home, Restored, Celebrity IOU, A Very Brady Renovation, and Property Brothers: Forever Home.
Loren Ruch’s Impact on HGTV Strategy
Visionary Programming
As head of content, Loren Ruch championed a balanced content strategy blending tentpole series and fan-favorites. He understood what viewers craved—home transformations, heartfelt storytelling, and design inspiration—leading to record engagement across multiple franchises.
Mentorship and Leadership
Colleagues recall Loren Ruch as a mentor with “unwavering dedication, endless kindness, and unshakeable integrity.” Warner Bros. Television Group chair Channing Dungey described him as the “connective tissue of every room,” praising his ability to make others feel seen, valued, and motivated.
Co‑Hosting HGTV House Party
In addition to his behind-the-scenes leadership, Loren Ruch co-hosted the lively Discovery+ series HGTV House Party. His warmth and charisma on camera made the show a fan favorite, reflecting the genuine enthusiasm he brought to every project. As host, Loren Ruch brought authentic energy to design conversations, keeping viewers engaged and inspired.
Colleague Tributes After Loren Ruch’s Passing
- Channing Dungey: “Known for his unwavering dedication… he built not only hit shows but enduring relationships… the glue that bound teams.”
- Interior designer Kevin Grace (via Instagram): “If you knew him, you know. He was one in a million… Sleep well my friend.”
- Steve S. Edwards, news personality: “Loren was a success in LIFE… He had more friends than towns have people… He will be so missed.”
These tributes highlight Loren Ruch’s dual legacy as an industry titan and a caring, uplifting teammate.
Personal Notes & Final Days
Ruch publicly shared his leukemia diagnosis earlier this year on Instagram. Sixteen weeks before his death, he posted about undergoing treatment and reflected on the strength of his marriage to husband David Salas, writing of “undying love” and commitment. He celebrated 21 years married in early June, marking a milestone just days before his passing. Such personal insights reinforce who Loren Ruch was—devoted both to his craft and his loved ones.
What Comes Next for HGTV
With Loren Ruch gone, HGTV now faces the challenge of maintaining its momentum and creative spirit. His replacement as head of content will inherit a legacy of thoughtful programming and strong mentorship. Viewers can expect upcoming seasons of flagship shows like Love It or List It (premiering this summer with Page Turner replacing Hillary Farr), now flourishing under the foundation Ruch helped build.
Conclusion
Loren Ruch’s passing leaves a void at HGTV and across the lifestyle entertainment world. His talent, leadership, warmth, and vision shaped the network and inspired countless colleagues and viewers. As the network evolves, Loren Ruch’s enduring influence will continue to guide its story. His legacy reminds us that true cultural impact combines creative brilliance with kindness and collaboration.
If Ruch’s career touched you—whether through HGTV shows or the personal kindness he showed countless peers—consider celebrating his legacy by watching one of his signature series or sharing your memories on social media.