-- Paula David - Fourth Estate Cooperative Reporter

Los Angeles, CA, United States (4E) - Aside from co-founding TMZ with Harvey Levin, an online celebrity news site, in 2006, Paratore was president of Telepictures, a division of warner Brothers, a producer of hit television shows, and a generous person who helped launch (and re-launch) careers of various big names in the celebrity world.

Some of his famed television shows are "The Ellen DeGeneres Show", "The Rosie O'Donnell Show", "The Bachelor" franchise, and of course, the "TMZ" television show.

In a writeup by the TMZ staff, it said, "Jim was a triple threat -- an amazingly creative guy who never let convention get in the way of a good idea. He was also a great producer who could execute the ideas that were in his head. And he was the best salesman in the world -- Jim could convince anyone of anything."

It further stated, "Everyone at TMZ was touched by Jim's brilliance and the loss is great and painful."

Friends and other celebrities expressed their grief and sympathies via Twitter.

"My TMZ partner, Jim Paratore, died today during a biking trip. Jim was amazing...creating an online business was his idea..." by Harvey Levin (HarveyLevinTMZ)

"Jim, I will miss you! You believed in me & were so influential in my TV career. Thank you for your faith." by Tyra Banks (tyrabanks)

"So sad to hear of the passing of Jim Paratore. He was a gentleman & consummate professional. My heart goes out to his friends & family. RIP" by Sharon Osbourne (MrsSOsbourne)

"My friend, producer and champion Jim Paratore died today. He gave me a chance when no one else would. I love you, Jim." by Ellen DeGeneres (TheEllenShow)

He is survived by his wife Jill Wickert and daughter Martinique Paratore.

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