Robert Pietranton, the greatly admired and popular Senior Vice President of Publicity and Communications for Warner Bros. Television Group, died unexpectedly at his Los Angeles home on November 19, 2025. He was 56 years old. For more than two decades, Pietranton had played an integral part of Warner Bros. TV from within, with his gentle nature, unruffled composure under difficult circumstances, and strong passion for television.
Pietranton had spent two decades at Warner Bros., where he was integral to publicity and strategic communications in major series such as “Abbott Elementary,” “The West Wing,” “The Pitt,” “Two and a Half Men,” and “Shameless.” Prior to joining Warner Bros. in 2006 as director of publicity, he held similar positions at Sony Pictures Television and DreamWorks Television. Beyond PR work, Pietranton had contributed to immersive writing for Variety and provided keen insight into the world of entertainment.
Colleagues and industry peers have also expressed great sadness and shock regarding Pietranton’s passing. Warner Bros. TV Chairman Channing Dungey remembered him as “the heart and soul” of the publicity department and recalled how infectious his laughter was, along with his support, which never wavered. Other publicists remember his warmth, generosity, and dedication to storytelling both professionally and personally.
The cause of his death was not revealed, but Warner Bros. Television did announce plans to celebrate his life in the future. Pietranton’s legacy lives on as a very humble, yet influential man who stood tall on character and respect for all, above all. He is survived by his brother and nephews and left behind a legacy that touched countless lives in the Hollywood community of television.
