Matt Wright was privately battling health problems prior to his shocking death at 52.
Page Six has learned that those close to the late talk show producer knew he suffered from “heart problems” prior to his passing. An official cause of death has not been revealed.
Wright died in his sleep in Los Angeles on Oct. 30. Shortly after his passing, a GoFundMe was established to help transfer Wright’s body back to his hometown in New York for a proper burial.
The raised funds will also go toward a memorial in Los Angeles.
“There’s talk of a celebration of life happening, most likely in LA and NYC as he had so many people close to him on both coasts,” a source said.
Any remaining contributions will support Wright’s “pride and joy” — his niece, Sami, the page said.
The campaign was set up because Wright and his husband, Justin Fusella, were both laid off from their jobs earlier this summer.
Over the course of 16 years working at “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” Wright ultimately earned the role of Executive Producer — a testament to his work ethic.
“He’d be at the office most nights until 11 p.m.” a source previously shared of Wright’s hard-working mentality. Everyone who loved him is shocked and devastated over his death.”
The nine-time Emmy-winning producer also worked for “The View,” “The Drew Barrymore Show” and “The Jennifer Hudson Show.”
Wright visited Hudson on setjust hours before his death.
The campaign launched with a goal of $50,000, though it has since nearly doubled.
DeGeneres made a public $5,000 donation to the GoFundMe and quickly drew backlash for the amount.
“5k from an almost billionaire…….how generous…….,” a social media user posted on Twitter.
“Wow, 0.001% of her net worth! How generous!” anotheradded.
According to a source on set, Wright’s loved ones wish his former boss had contributed a greater amount.
“People who knew him do wish Ellen was doing more.”
The post Ellen DeGeneres’ late producer Matt Wright’s secret health struggles revealed after TV veteran died in his sleep appeared first on Page Six.