Joseph T. Naar, affectionately known as Joe, made his debut into the world in 1926, specifically in the vibrant neighborhood of Boyle Heights, Los Angeles, thus commencing a lifelong journey deeply entwined with the entertainment industry. After completing his secondary education at the renowned Los Angeles High School, Joe ventured forth on a career trajectory that would ultimately lead him to the prestigious ranks of Film Industry Agents William Morris.
Joe's captivating personality and amiable disposition enabled him to rapidly progress through the training program at WMA, showcasing his exceptional abilities. By the early 1950s, his client list had grown to include an impressive array of A-list celebrities, featuring the likes of Peter Lawford, Steve McQueen, Ali MacGraw, Raquel Welch, and the iconic Marilyn Monroe.
It was during this period that he crossed paths with his first spouse, the talented stage and film dancer Dolores Durrett, with whom he would eventually tie the knot and raise three children, while making their home in the picturesque Brentwood, California.
Joe's aspirations continued to escalate, ultimately leading to a paradigmatic shift from agency work to the realm of production, where he made significant contributions to the world of television, serving as a producer on various notable programs, including the esteemed 'General Electric Comedy Hour', hosted by the esteemed Ronald Reagan, as well as 'Lux Playhouse' and the popular TV series 'Checkmate'.
Notably, Joe's creative endeavors also extended to the realm of film, where he played a pivotal role in the development of actor Jon Voight's early career, working alongside him on his inaugural film production, the critically acclaimed 'The All-American Boy'.
Furthermore, Joe's impressive production credits include the groundbreaking, now cult classic 'Blacula' (1972),and its equally acclaimed sequel 'Scream Blacula Scream,' (1973),starring the talented William Marshall and Vonetta McGee, for AIP Productions.
Joe's esteemed reputation for achieving unparalleled success paved the way for his transition into the realm of television, where he embarked on a fruitful collaboration with the esteemed Spelling-Goldberg Productions, resulting in the creation of the highly acclaimed and popular TV series, 'Starsky and Hutch'. Moreover, Joe is credited with conceiving the concept for the TV Series 'Heart to Heart', which ultimately went into production, boasting an impressive cast, including the renowned Robert Wagner. His impressive portfolio also includes producing the TV series 'Strike Force', in association with the talented Robert Culp, as well as the critically acclaimed 'Half Nelson', starring the accomplished Joe Pesci.
As the years went by, Joe and Dolores, once a loving couple, found themselves on separate paths, ultimately deciding to go their individual ways and start new chapters in their lives by remarrying others. Despite this, their bond of friendship remained strong, a testament to the enduring power of their connection.
Throughout his life, Joe had been battling lung cancer, a relentless foe that had taken a significant toll on his health. On January 17, 2014, his courageous struggle finally came to an end, as he succumbed to the disease at the ripe age of 88, surrounded by the comforting presence of Dolores, his dear friend and confidante.
