Memories of the great TV writer Dave Flebotte and the journey of his unique talent
Table of Contents
A life in words and laughs
Dave Flebotte, the Emmy-nominated writer whose talents touched everything from “Desperate Housewives” to “Tulsa King,” has left us, but his creative legacy lives on.
From sitcom to drama: A versatile voice
Starting out in comedy with “The 5 Mrs. Buchanans” and “Allen,” Dave never limited himself.
He swung easily between laugh-out-loud sitcoms and riveting dramas.
His magic touched the harsh worlds of “Bernie Mac,” “Will & Grace,” and later, “Boardwalk Empire.”
The Housewives years
From 2008-2012, Dave helped shape the quirky world of Wisteria Lane as co-executive producer of “Desperate Housewives.”
Former colleague Sabrina Wind remembers him as “very funny, very kind” — a friend who brought joy but also stuck by during life’s toughest moments.
Creating His Own Path
In 2009, Dave created “Sherry” with Sherri Shepherd, adding “creator” to his already impressive resume.
His career journey took him through a wonderful variety of shows, each one benefiting from his unique voice.
Award-Worthy Talent
A 1999 Emmy nomination for “The PJs” and dual WGA Award nominations for “Boardwalk Empire” speak of his skill, but colleagues remember something else.
A Writer Who Loved Writing
Cindy Caponera captured it exactly: “I’ve never met a writer who loved writing so much.”
Even during illness, Dave kept creating, never complaining – showing everyone how to live and love fully.
The Gift of Laughter
Dave had the rare talent of “recognizing the awkward and turning it into comic relief,” as Laurie Parres described it.
He transformed life’s painful moments into healing laughter, “making things easier” with his unique perspective on the world.
An Enduring Presence
Though he is gone, Dave’s spirit lives on in his work and in the hearts of those who knew him.
His ability to find the laughter in humanity’s struggles continues to inspire—a reminder that sometimes laughter really is the best medicine.