Loren Ruch, co-host of the 2021 series HGTV House Party and Head of Content at HGTV, passed away on June 12, 2025.
He died at age 55 after a courageous battle with acute myeloid leukemia, as reported by Variety and confirmed by People.
Ruch had been a cornerstone at HGTV since 2008, overseeing beloved series such as HGTV Dream Home, White House Christmas, and A Very Brady Renovation throughout his tenure as a top programming executive.
In a memo shared by Warner Bros. Television Group chair Channing Dungey, Ruch was lauded as “known for his unwavering dedication, endless kindness and unshakeable integrity.”
Dungey described him as “the rare leader who lifted everyone around him … the connective tissue of every room he entered … the glue that bound teams” and praised his ability to “make people feel seen, valued, and inspired.”
Colleagues across HGTV and beyond flooded social media with heartfelt tributes.
Bobby Berk, star of Queer Eye, shared on Instagram: “RIP my friend. You were always such a warm light in a dark world and will be missed by so many 💔.”
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Jasmine Roth of Help! I Wrecked My House remembered him fondly, writing, “To know Loren was to love him. He had one of those personalities that people gravitate towards. He was fun loving and one of the most creative people I’ve met.”
Roth added, “He relished the idea of trying new things … He believed in people. He found the best in everyone. He was a storyteller. He was a dreamer. He was the real deal.”
Christina Haack also posted a tribute, calling Loren “one of the rare ones and the real ones” and said “Everyone adored you.”
Jonathan Scott shared that he’s “struggling with the loss of my friend tonight” and expressed deep sadness at his passing.
Before his influential years at HGTV, Ruch began his career in Los Angeles at Fox’s KTTV-TV, working on programs like Good Day L.A. and Good Day Live.
He was also a proud advocate for LGBTQ+ causes, supporting organizations such as Live Out Loud—even before many executives had begun publicly championing LGBTQ+ visibility in the industry.
Loren is survived by his husband of 21 years, David Salas, with whom he shared 27 years together, as well as his mother, father, and brother.
On June 5, Salas marked their anniversary with an Instagram post featuring vintage wedding photos, affectionately referring to Loren as his best friend and expressing enduring love.
Ruch’s legacy transcends television programming; he leaves behind a legacy of mentorship, creativity, teamwork, warmth, and unwavering integrity.
His work shaped some of HGTV’s most iconic events and holiday specials, and his spirit inspired colleagues and viewers alike.
Though the stage lights have dimmed on Loren’s career, his influence and the hearts he touched will continue to shine.
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