Television writer Earl Barret dies at 94 in California

Television writer and producer Earl Barret died of natural causes at his home in Sherman Oaks, California, on October 22, 2026. He was 94 years old. Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, and Deadline TV all reported his death, with his daughter J.K. Barret confirming the news to The Hollywood Reporter. [1][2][3][4]

Barret spent more than 30 years writing for television. Variety reported that he began his TV writing career in 1961 after taking a free weekly writing class taught by Robert C. Dennis, with whom he later wrote episodes for multiple series. Over his career, Barret wrote for more than 30 television shows. [1][3][4]

According to Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, and Deadline TV, Barret co-created the sitcom Too Close for Comfort, which starred Ted Knight. The Hollywood Reporter and Deadline TV noted that his extensive writing credits included episodes of Bewitched, Batman, The Andy Griffith Show, Get Smart, I Spy, Sanford and Son, and Welcome Back, Kotter. The Hollywood Reporter also reported that Barret created the villain character King Tut for the Batman series. [1][3][4]

Beyond writing, Barret worked as a story editor and producer. Grokipedia notes that he often partnered with Arne Sultan on production projects, including the television series The Governor and J.J., and contributed to 33 different television programs throughout his career. [12]