From Sibby Wieland and World Audio Drama Day:

We are sorry to announce the death of Jim French, of Jim French Productions, yesterday, December 20th, 2017 at the age of 89. French was a legend in the Puget Sound region, working as a disk jockey and producer, but he was best known worldwide for keeping the flame of radio drama alive on American network radio through the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s, continuing well into the podcast age. At its height Jim French Productions were syndicated on hundreds of stations, including “Harry Nile” and “Imagination Theatre” and were also available as audio cassettes, CDs, and most recently as podcasts. He was known for his kindness and generosity, and he treated writers, producers, crew and actors well. JFP even let next generation streaming stations – Sound Stages Radio and others – to distribute his shows. He was also a guest with REPS (Radio Enthusiasts of Puget Sound). Thank you for everything, Jim.

Our deepest regrets and best wishes to the friends and family of this innovator of modern audio theatre. Farewell Jim.