Remembering Jim Marrinan

CANNES: A veritable who’s who of the international television business gathered Tuesday evening during MIPTV to honor the life of Jim Marrinan, who passed away 11 days ago.

Nearly 100 people, ranging from top distribution executives to program buyers from around the world, recounted stories–both humorous and heartfelt–of how Jim had touched their lives. From hunting mishaps to singing La cucaracha in a bar in Japan (and its unfortunate consequences), from Jim’s "expertise" in all things technical, which earned him the nickname DigiJim, to his hearty appetite for food and life, the stories brought laughter and bittersweet tears.

But most of all, everyone recalled Jim’s bottomless kindness and his unfailing willingness to always, always offer advice and help. If Jim didn’t have the answer or solution to a question or problem, he would find it, gladly and quickly.

Jim will be sorely missed and his sudden death has left a huge aching hole in the lives of so many.

Another gathering in Jim’s memory is being planned during the L.A. Screenings.