Manny Coto, a prolific writer and producer known for his work on acclaimed TV shows such as “24” and “American Horror Story,” has sadly passed away at the age of 62.
Coto, who received an Emmy for his contributions to “24” and spent several seasons working on the “American Horror Story” franchise, lost his battle with pancreatic cancer on Sunday at his home in Pasadena. His remarkable career spanned four decades, leaving an indelible mark on the world of film and television.
Coto’s passion for storytelling was ignited during his childhood through his love for “Star Trek” and Super-8 moviemaking. He channelled that passion into a successful career that included notable projects such as the final two seasons of “Star Trek: Enterprise” and the final three seasons of “Dexter.” As showrunner for “Enterprise” in its fourth season, Coto’s creative vision brought back the essence of the beloved franchise, earning him recognition as an unsung hero. His deep-rooted affection for “Star Trek” influenced his life and worldview, inspiring him to believe in the boundless potential of humanity and the promise of the future.
READ MORE: Look: Wolverine Returns with Classic Costume in ‘Deadpool 3’ alongside Ryan Reynolds
In addition to his work on iconic TV series, Manny Coto made significant contributions to the film industry. He co-wrote the screenplay for “The Ticking Man” alongside Brian Helgeland, which became the first script to sell for over $1 million, although it was never produced. Coto’s expertise extended to directing, with credits including the horror film “Dr. Giggles” and the family sci-fi film “Star Kid.” He also directed the telefilm “Zenon: The Zequel” for the Disney Channel.
Coto’s remarkable career included serving as executive producer for the FX anthology series “American Horror Story” from 2018 to 2022, as well as its spinoff series “American Horror Stories” in 2021-22. He played a crucial role in shaping the dark and captivating narratives that have captivated audiences worldwide. In 2020, he created and led the Fox series “neXt,” further showcasing his diverse storytelling abilities.
Manny Coto leaves behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry. His talent, creativity, and dedication have left an indelible mark on television and film. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Coto will be remembered for his kind-hearted nature and his ability to inspire and guide aspiring talents. His brother, Juan Carlos Coto, a writer and producer, expressed deep sorrow and referred to Manny as not only a brother but also a best friend and an irreplaceable source of inspiration.
Manny Coto is survived by his wife, visual effects supervisor Robin Trickett, whom he met during the production of “Odyssey 5.” He is also survived by his children Manny, Riley, and twins Charlotte and Finley, his mother Norma, sister, and brother, Juan Carlos, who is also involved in the television industry. His passion for life extended beyond his work, with hobbies including model trains, collecting runs of “Doc Savage” and “The Shadow,” and cultivating a backyard vineyard that yielded 200 bottles of wine each year. Coto’s warmth, generosity, and dedication to his craft will be cherished by his loved ones and the entertainment community alike.
Manny Coto, a highly respected writer and producer known for his contributions to iconic television shows like “24” and “American Horror Story,” has left an indelible mark on the industry. His talent, creativity, and dedication to storytelling have garnered widespread acclaim and admiration. As the entertainment world mourns his loss, his family, friends, and colleagues remember him as not only a brilliant professional but also a source of inspiration and guidance. Manny Coto’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of storytellers, ensuring that his contributions to film and television are celebrated for years to come.