Joe Epperson, the three-time Emmy-nominated camera operator, known for his work on iconic shows such as All in the Family, The Jeffersons, Full House, and The Tonight Show, has passed away at the age of 80.
Epperson died of cardiac arrest at Southwest General Health Center in Ohio, after health complications following a burst appendix. His wife of 58 years, Patty Epperson, shared the news with The Hollywood Reporter.
Renowned for his expertise with hand-held cameras, Joe Epperson captured legendary performances including The Pee-wee Herman Show (1981), and filmed stars like Frank Sinatra, Liza Minnelli, and Sammy Davis Jr. during a Showtime special in 1989. He also contributed to the 2014 documentary Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me, chronicling the music legend’s final tour amid his battle with Alzheimer’s.
A charter member of the Society of Camera Operators since its founding in 1979, Epperson was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1995 and served on its board of directors.
His television career highlights include camera work on CBS’ All in the Family (1975-79), The Jeffersons (1976-82), ABC’s Full House (1987-95), and over 15 years on The Tonight Show starting with Jay Leno in 1992.
Born in Camden, New Jersey, and raised in Berea, Ohio, Joe was the son of a pioneering TV engineer and graduated from Ohio University. His career spanned multiple roles including technical director, stage manager, assistant director, and lighting director.
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His portfolio boasts work on TV specials with artists such as Paul Simon, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Richard Pryor, The Rolling Stones, and Elton John. He earned Primetime Emmy nominations for concert specials featuring Rod Stewart, Sheena Easton, and Cher.
Epperson also contributed to shows like Family Ties, Married… With Children, American Idol, and The X Factor, alongside filming high-profile events such as the Oscars and the Rose Parade.
Known for his collaborative spirit, cinematographer Steven Poster praised Joe’s dedication, stating, “Joe gets the big picture… Every director wants people like Joe on their crew because this is all about teamwork and collaboration.”
Joe Epperson is survived by his wife Patty, daughters Amanda and Rebecca, and grandchildren Jaquelyn, Kirsten, Isabella, and Joseph.
