Grammys Producer Cossette Dies

Longtime Grammy Awards producer John Cossette has died.

The 54 year old's death was confirmed in a statement from his wife Ritaand daughters Maria and Rose.

It reads, "We are deeply saddened to report that John Cossette, 54, haspassed away. We ask that you please respect our privacy during this incredibly emotional time. We appreciate everyone's love and support, and further details regarding funeral arrangements will be forthcoming in the next few days".

Cossette worked on music's most illustrious ceremony for more than 20 years and was in charge of this year's (11) broadcast.

He also helmed the Latin Grammys, the Bet Awards and the Bet Hip Hop Awards, and worked on the Broadway musical Million Dollar Quartet, about the 1956 meeting of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis.

No further details of his death were available as Wenn went to press.