Tom Cherones, the Emmy-winning director and producer best known for his work on the iconic sitcom "Seinfeld," has died at the age of 86. Cherones passed away on January 5, 2026, at his home in Florence, Oregon, after a battle with Alzheimer's disease, according to a family spokesperson.

Born on September 11, 1939, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Thomas Harry Cherones Jr. began his career in television after serving four years as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy. He earned a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of New Mexico and a master's degree in telecommunications from the University of Alabama. Before moving to Hollywood, Cherones worked in educational television and produced and directed programs for WQED in Pittsburgh.

Cherones moved to Hollywood in 1975, landing his first job as a production manager for "General Hospital". His first directing job was in 1986 for an episode of the CBS comedy series "My Sister Sam". However, he is most renowned for his work on "Seinfeld," where he directed 81 of the first 86 episodes during the show's first five seasons. He began his stint with "Seinfeld" in 1990, starting with directing the second episode, "The Stakeout".

Cherones's work on "Seinfeld" helped establish the show's unique tone and style, contributing to its status as a groundbreaking sitcom. Several episodes he directed are considered among the series' best, including "The Chinese Restaurant," "The Parking Garage," and "The Contest". In 1993, he won a Directors Guild of America Award for directing "The Contest". That same year, he shared a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series with Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David. Cherones also made a cameo appearance in the fourth season episode "The Pilot".

After the fifth season, Cherones departed "Seinfeld" at the request of Jerry Seinfeld, who wanted to bring in a new perspective to keep the show fresh. Following "Seinfeld," Cherones directed all but one episode of the second season of "Ellen," starring Ellen DeGeneres. He also directed episodes of "Caroline in the City" and a significant portion of the final three seasons of "NewsRadio". Other credits include "Growing Pains," "Men Behaving Badly," and "Sabrina the Teenage Witch".

In addition to his directing career, Cherones taught television production pro bono at the University of Alabama from 2002 to 2014. He was inducted into the Alabama Stage and Screen Hall of Fame in 2003.

Cherones is survived by his third wife, Carol; his daughter, Susan, and her husband, Daniel; his son, Scott, and his wife, Linda; and his grandchildren, Jessa and Thomas. He was previously married to Bobby Cherones and Joyce Keener, who passed away in 2006.

Tom Cherones's contribution to television comedy, particularly his work on "Seinfeld," has left an enduring legacy. His talent for visual storytelling and comedic timing made him a respected figure in the industry, and his work continues to be enjoyed by audiences worldwide.