Lawrence "Larry" Auerbach (1923–2014) was a prominent American television director, best known for his foundational work in the daytime drama genre. Throughout a career spanning several decades, Auerbach became one of the most prolific directors in television history, credited with overseeing thousands of episodes of serialized programming.
Early Life and Career Born on September 14, 1923, in New York City, Auerbach began his career in the early days of television. He attended Northwestern University before entering the broadcasting industry. He initially worked at NBC in Chicago before moving to New York City to join CBS.
Professional Work Auerbach is most closely associated with the soap opera Love of Life, which premiered on CBS in 1951. He served as the primary director for the program for its entire 29-year broadcast run, which concluded in 1980. His tenure on the show is often cited as a record for continuous service by a director on a single television series.
Following the conclusion of Love of Life, Auerbach continued to work extensively within the daytime television industry. His directorial credits included established serials such as As the World Turns, Another World, One Life to Live, and All My Children. His technical expertise was instrumental in the transition of daytime dramas from live broadcasts to recorded segments.
Union Leadership and Recognition Beyond his directorial duties, Auerbach was a significant figure in the Directors Guild of America (DGA). He served as a member of the DGA National Board for over 30 years and held the position of National Vice President. He was an advocate for the rights of directors in the television industry and played a key role in contract negotiations.
In recognition of his contributions to the medium, the DGA honored him with the Robert B. Aldrich Award in 1982 and the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award in Daytime Television in 1991.
Death Auerbach died on March 20, 2014, in Manhattan, New York, at the age of 90. He is remembered as a pioneer of the "Golden Age" of live television and a central figure in the development of the American soap opera format.