Who was Rico Priem? All About the 9-1-1 Crew Member who Died of Heart Attack While Driving Home from 14-Hour Shift

Hollywood thrives on the dedication of countless behind-the-scenes professionals who turn creative visions into reality. Rico Priem was one of those unsung heroes—a skilled grip whose expertise and hard work brought life to some of the industry’s most celebrated productions, including Deadpool and 9-1-1.

Rico Priem’s life was more than a collection of roles behind the camera. His sudden and heartbreaking death shook the very foundations of the community he worked so tirelessly to support. Beyond the credits and the long hours, his life reflects the quiet resilience of countless crew members who help bring stories to life.

Who was Rico Priem?

Rico Priem was a dedicated and accomplished grip in the film and television industry whose untimely passing profoundly impacted his colleagues, friends, and family. Born on August 4, 1957, in Long Island, New York, Priem grew up aspiring to become an actor. Although his career path took a different turn, his love for the entertainment industry remained unwavering. In 1997, he began working as a grip in California, a role defining his professional life and establishing him as a respected figure in Hollywood production circles. A grip is a behind-the-scenes technician responsible for setting up rigging, dollies, tracks, and other equipment to support camera and lighting operations, ensuring seamless shoots.

Over his career, Priem contributed to over 40 projects, leaving his mark on some of the most popular and critically acclaimed shows, including Deadpool, Scandal, CSI, Curb Your Enthusiasm, This Is Us, and Star Trek. His dedication and expertise earned him admiration from coworkers and industry professionals alike. Rico Priem was on the cusp of retirement and looking forward to spending more time with his family when tragedy struck in May 2024.

What happened to Rico Priem?

Rico Priem passed away on May 11, 2024, after suffering a sudden cardiac dysfunction while driving home from his second consecutive 14-hour overnight shift on the set of 9-1-1. The incident occurred around 4:30 a.m. on the 57 Freeway near Via Verde Drive in San Dimas, California. According to the California Highway Patrol, Priem’s Toyota Highlander veered off the road, hit a tree, went up an embankment, and flipped over. Emergency responders found him deceased at the scene.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner later confirmed that Priem’s cause of death was natural, caused by sudden cardiac dysfunction and cardiomegaly with left ventricular hypertrophy. Toxicology reports revealed no traces of alcohol or drugs in his system at the time of his passing. Despite initial concerns raised by his union regarding long working hours, the autopsy clarified that Priem’s death was unrelated to drowsy driving.

Impact of Rico Priem’s death

Priem’s passing ignited conversations within the entertainment industry about the gruelling schedules of production crews. The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) emphasized the importance of safe working conditions and better protection for crew members. Statements from IATSE highlighted their commitment to ensuring workers can safely commute to and from their jobs without undue risks.

Ethan Ravens, an advocate for production assistants in Hollywood, and other industry professionals also expressed their condolences and called for stronger union protections to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Rico Priem’s death became a rallying point for discussions about “Fraturdays,” a term used to describe shoots that begin on Friday and extend into Saturday morning, leaving workers with insufficient rest.

What did Rico Priem mean to his colleagues?

Rico Priem was more than a skilled grip; he was a valued team member whose dedication and professionalism enriched every set he worked on. His colleagues described him as reliable, hardworking, and kind. Nina Moskol, a coworker from 9-1-1, shared a heartfelt Facebook tribute, calling his death a “traumatic loss” and recounting her experience working with him just days before his passing. She noted that Priem had eagerly anticipated retirement and time with his loved ones.

Angela Bassett, a star of 9-1-1, also honoured Priem, highlighting how the cast and crew came together to remember him and support his family during their grief. The season finale of 9-1-1 featured a tribute to Priem, underscoring his integral role in the production and the deep respect he commanded within the team.

Rico Priem contribution

Rico Priem’s contributions to the entertainment industry extended far beyond his technical expertise. He played a pivotal role in creating the visual magic that brings stories to life on screen. As a grip, his work often went unnoticed by the audience but was indispensable to the success of countless productions. His colleagues’ tributes and the industry’s outpouring of grief reflect his enduring impact on those around him.

Priem is survived by his wife, three siblings, a niece, two grandnieces, two nephews, a grandnephew, three cousins, and a beloved dog. His family, friends, and colleagues remember him for his professional achievements and his warmth, humour, and dedication to those he cared about.

FAQs

What was Rico Priem’s cause of death? Rico Priem died of sudden cardiac dysfunction and cardiomegaly with left ventricular hypertrophy. His death was ruled natural by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.

What was Rico Priem’s role in the entertainment industry? Rico Priem was a grip responsible for setting up rigging, dollies, tracks, and other equipment to support camera and lighting operations. He worked on over 40 notable projects, including Deadpool, This Is Us, and Star Trek.

How did the entertainment industry honour Rico Priem? The 9-1-1 season finale featured a tribute to Priem. Colleagues, including Angela Bassett, remembered him fondly, and discussions about crew safety and working conditions gained renewed attention following his passing.

What issues did Rico Priem’s death highlight in Hollywood? Priem’s death brought attention to the long hours and challenging conditions faced by production crews. It sparked calls for stronger union protections and improved workplace safety measures.