'Pitchmen' continues despite Billy Mays' death

By Rick Porter

July 15, 2009 5:27 AM

The Discovery Channel has renewed its series "Pitchmen" despite the death of one of its two stars, Billy Mays.

The show about the infomercial industry and two of its leading personalities, Mays and Anthony "Sully" Sullivan, has earned a second season, the cable channel announced Wednesday (July 15). Discovery says it wants to continue the series because it did well in the ratings, but also "as a tribute to Mays' legacy."

Mays died June 28 at his home in Tampa, Fla. The 50-year-old hawker of Oxi Clean and numerous other products likely suffered heart failure, an autopsy found.

Mays' son, Billy Mays III, will help develop the format for season two of "Pitchmen" along with Sullivan and executive producer Thom Beers. Discovery hasn't set a premiere date for the new season yet.

Discovery also says it will re-air its special "Pitchman: A Tribute to Billy Mays" on Friday, July 24.

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| Comments (5)

5 Comments

Good to hear.

Toenail | July 15, 2009 7:58 AM

Awesome!

MasterMk7 | July 15, 2009 12:07 PM

Great news! I'm glad to hear Billy's son will be a driving force in the show, what a great way to honor one's dad.

SoccerD | July 15, 2009 4:54 PM

it was too bad that he died, just at a time he got his big break. at least he went out on top!!

the fanz | July 15, 2009 5:18 PM

I loved he guy. Certainly one of my heroes. I am 60 years young and am a stage hypnotist. People tell me that I should audition to do future commercials. I did view his partner this weekend. Would love the opportunity to audition in honor of my heroe Billy.

Thank you,

Brian Mahar/ Albany, NY

Brian Mahar | July 20, 2009 6:37 PM