Michael Kuchwara, Associated Press Drama Critic Dies at 63

An AP news alert has gone out that Michael Kuchwara, longtime critic for the Associated Press has died at 63.

The AP writes that "Kuchwara's sister says Kuchwara died Saturday at Beth Israel Hospital in Manhattan. He was 63.

Kuchwara had reviewed most major Broadway and off-Broadway plays for the news organization since 1984. He recently celebrated his 40th anniversary with the AP.

Kuchwara was known for his thoughtful, fair-minded reviews that made him beloved and respected in the theater world and beyond.

Kuchwara is survived by his sister, Pat Henley and his wife, Johnnie Kay Kuchwara."

The AP reports that he "died at Beth Israel Hospital in Manhattan of complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a lung disease that causes scarring. He entered the hospital May 10."

Kuchwara was the drama critic and drama writer for the Associated Press since 1984. Before being named to that position, he worked for the AP in Chicago as a general assignment editor and reporter and in New York on its General Desk, the main editing desk for national news. Born in Scranton, Pa., he is a graduate of Syracuse University. Kuchwara also has a master's degree in journalism from the University of Missouri. Kuchwara is a past president of the New York Drama Critics' Circle.

A statement from his family notes that both funeral and memorial service plans will be forthcoming and that "Michael touched so many of you, his friends, family and business associates. Your outpouring of love and support these last days and weeks were a great comfort to Michael and to his family. We will miss him dearly and these next few days will be challenging, but we know that Michael is without pain and at rest."

Click here for his full Associated Press obituary.