Joseph Dea, a trailblazer in the realms of music video and television direction, passed away on Sunday at the age of 71. His groundbreaking work left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

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Joseph Dea’s career was nothing short of extraordinary, blending artistry with technological innovation to redefine visual storytelling. From his early days experimenting with video art to his later achievements as a director for network television, Dea consistently pushed boundaries and set new standards for creativity.

The Genesis of a Creative Mind

In the bustling corridors of the University of Hartford’s Hartford Art School, Joseph Dea nurtured his passion for combining painting techniques with cinematic elements. This unique fusion laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in video art. During the late 1970s, his pioneering exhibitions graced prestigious venues such as New York’s Whitney Museum and The Kitchen, showcasing his avant-garde approach to visual media. Dea’s association with San Francisco’s Optic Nerve collective further solidified his reputation as an innovator. Collaborating with fellow artists, he honed his skills and developed a keen eye for integrating cutting-edge technology into his creations. It was during this period that he became a founding member of Videowest, a production powerhouse known for its comedy, music videos, and alternative news content. Dea’s contributions were instrumental in crafting segments for popular shows like USA’s “TakeOFF” and ABC’s “Backstage Pass,” establishing him as a key figure in the burgeoning world of televised entertainment.

A Prolific Career in Music Video Direction

With over 30 music videos under his belt, Joseph Dea carved out a niche as one of the most influential directors of his era. Five of these videos earned recognition in Rolling Stone Magazine’s All-Time Top 100 Videos, a testament to their enduring impact. Among them is Greg Kihn’s “Jeopardy” and “Happy Man,” which captivated audiences with their innovative storytelling. Additionally, Dea directed Krokus’ “Screaming in the Night,” marking a milestone as the first heavy metal video to achieve significant rotation on MTV.Perhaps one of his crowning achievements came in 1980 when he helmed the Emmy-winning video for Commander Cody and the Lost Planet Airmen’s “Two Triple Cheese, Side Order of Fries.” This masterpiece featured groundbreaking visual effects, including animated French fries and cheeseburgers synchronized to the rhythm of energetic rock music. Its acclaim extended beyond the music industry, earning it a place in both Rolling Stone Magazine’s Music Video Hall of Fame and the permanent collection of New York’s Museum of Modern Art.

Transitioning to Television Excellence

By the late 1980s, Dea had expanded his horizons to encompass a diverse array of television projects. Relocating to Los Angeles, he immersed himself in directing episodes across various genres, from documentaries and reality shows to live music performances and dramatic recreations. His expertise shone brightly in prime-time network specials for NBC and Fox, including “Masters of Illusion: The Wizards of Special Effects” and “The World’s Greatest Stunts.”As the senior director of TLC’s long-running series “A Wedding Story,” Dea brought his meticulous attention to detail and creative flair to every episode. Beyond the camera lens, he also ventured onto the screen, co-hosting the History Channel’s “What Went Down” and contributing as background talent for “The Young and the Restless.” His artistic endeavors extended even further, with works displayed at the Los Angeles Center for Digital Art and the Museum of Neon Art.

A Life Remembered and Honored

Joseph Dea leaves behind a legacy cherished by many, including his wife Melissa Force, stepdaughter Tamara Miller, stepson Dylan Miller, and six step-grandchildren. His sisters Elaine Dea and Maureen Dea also mourn the loss of their beloved brother. To honor his memory, donations may be made to the UCSF Foundation (P.O. Box 45339, San Francisco, CA 94145) in tribute to Joseph C. Dea (7001220).Through his relentless pursuit of excellence and unwavering dedication to his craft, Joseph Dea remains an inspiration to aspiring directors and artists worldwide. His contributions to the arts continue to resonate through the countless lives he touched and the timeless works he created.