Michael Waxman Obituary-Death News; Michael Waxman, Producer and Director for Chicago Med, Dies
The television world, and particularly the One Chicago community, is mourning the loss of a creative force and deeply respected colleague. Michael Waxman, a former executive producer and director on Chicago Med, has passed away.
The news was shared by actor Colin Donnell, who portrayed Dr. Connor Rhodes on Chicago Med from Seasons 1 through 5, in a heartfelt Instagram tribute in April. Donnell’s post, featuring a series of photos of Waxman on set, captures the immense respect and affection felt by those who worked with him.
“If you enjoy Chicago Med, it’s because from Day One Michael Waxman pushed to make the show the best it could be and worked tirelessly to keep improving episode after episode, season after season,” Donnell wrote.
“He loved his job. And as much as he loved making movies and television, it was a distant second to being on his ranch in Texas surrounded by his family.” Donnell concluded with a deeply personal note: “Getting to spend four seasons alongside him and learning everything I could was a privilege I could have only hoped to repeat. Rest in Peace, Boss.”
Waxman was an integral part of Chicago Med‘s early success, bringing his keen eye, collaborative spirit, and relentless pursuit of excellence to every episode. His contributions helped shape the tone, emotional depth, and visual storytelling of the series.
From the show’s very first season, Waxman played a major role behind the scenes, guiding the team with passion and insight. As Donnell noted, the first image he shared in his tribute was taken on Waxman’s final day on Chicago Med during Season 4, while the last photo was from the conclusion of Season 1 — a testament to Waxman’s enduring legacy on the show.
Tributes poured in from Waxman’s colleagues and collaborators, further underscoring the impact he had on those around him. S. Epatha Merkerson, who plays Chief Sharon Goodwin on the series, shared her sorrow: “We were so privileged to have him in our lives. Rest in peace…” Meanwhile, Chicago Fire alum Yuri Sardarov, known for his role as Brian “Otis” Zvonecek, added simply and powerfully: “Michael was truly the man. RIP to a real one.”
Beyond Chicago Med, Michael Waxman had an extraordinary career in television and film. He worked as a producer on acclaimed series such as Nashville, Trauma, and the beloved Friday Night Lights.
His work on Friday Night Lights earned him significant critical acclaim, including a Primetime Emmy Award nomination in 2011 for Outstanding Drama Series. He also received a Directors Guild of America nomination for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in a Dramatic Series for the series finale, titled “Always.”
Waxman’s talents extended into film as well. He worked as a producer on major motion pictures including Miami Vice, Transporter 2, Collateral, Ali, and The Insider, collaborating with some of the most respected filmmakers in the industry. His ability to move between television and film with equal skill is a testament to his versatility and deep understanding of storytelling across mediums.
While the cause of his death has not been publicly shared, what remains clear is the profound sense of loss felt by those who knew him and worked alongside him. Michael Waxman wasn’t just a brilliant director and producer — he was a mentor, a friend, and a steady, guiding presence on every set he stepped onto.
In the end, it was his family and his time on his Texas ranch that meant the most to him. Despite his many accolades and contributions to the entertainment industry, he remained grounded, devoted, and deeply human. His legacy will continue to live on through the countless stories he helped bring to life, and in the hearts of all those he touched.
Rest in peace, Michael Waxman. Your vision, kindness, and leadership will never be forgotten.
