Robert David Caminiti (1937-2025)
Bob Caminiti, who passed away on June 26 at the age of 88, spent much of his life behind the scenes in the television business. Born to Italian immigrants in Brooklyn, NY, he joined NBC in 1956, became Associate Director on Jeopardy in 1967, and worked on the production staff of Saturday Night Live from 1982 until his retirement in 2019. Along the way, he played small roles in several films. As a longtime Directors Guild of America (DGA) union representative and labor negotiator, he fought tirelessly to protect the rights of union members. He loved ballet and opera and was passionate about flying.
Bob believed in the importance of dialogue and the power of fearless expression to bring about political transformation. He served his country honorably in the United States Army and was deeply influenced by the history of the International Brigades—volunteers who, despite overwhelming odds, stood up to fascism in defense of democracy. Their idealism and courage left an indelible mark on his worldview, fueling his belief in principled resistance and the enduring power of collective action.
Bob is survived by his loving wife, Nathalie Watson Caminiti; his children, Marc “Chris” Caminiti and Susan Fallon; and six grandchildren: Karli Caminiti, Olivia Fallon, Samantha Caminiti, Maggi Caminiti, Matthew Caminiti, and Conor Fallon. Donations may be made in his honor to two organizations he was extremely passionate about because they embodied his lifelong commitment to justice, truth, and hope for a brighter future: the Center for Cuban Studies and the Abraham Lincoln Brigade Archives.
