Angela Bassett, star of the ABC series 9-1-1, is grieving the loss of crew member Rico Priem after his tragic death following a 14-hour shift. The cast and crew of the show, currently filming its seventh season, came together to honor Priem and offer condolences to his family. This is the first time the group has dealt with loss, having previously experienced “births” and “weddings” together. Priem, who worked as a grip and crew member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 80, was remembered by his colleagues as he was on the verge of retirement at the time of his passing.
Priem was driving home after his shift when his car left the road, flipped onto the roof, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The California Highway Patrol and IATSE released statements expressing their condolences and emphasizing the importance of safety in the workplace. The 20th Television studio, where the show is produced, also sent their sincere condolences to Priem’s family and friends. His death was a shocking loss to the 9-1-1 crew, as his retirement plans were cut short, including spending time with his family and enjoying his hobbies.
Nina Moskol, a fellow grip, paid tribute to Priem on social media, highlighting his plans for retirement and urging others to prioritize safety when commuting to work. Aisha Hinds, who plays Henrietta on the show, also expressed her sorrow in a heartfelt statement on Instagram. She described the crew members as the “unsung heroes” of the show and emphasized their importance in bringing creative ideas to life. Hinds mourned the loss of Priem and stressed the need for more care and communication within the industry to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.
The passing of Rico Priem had a profound impact on the 9-1-1 family, with the cast and crew struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss. His dedication to his craft and the wisdom he shared with his colleagues made him a beloved member of the team. Hinds acknowledged the integral role that crew members like Priem play in the success of the show, calling them the “cornerstones” of the production. The tragic event served as a reminder of the importance of workplace safety and the value of every individual in the entertainment industry.
The industry continues to mourn the loss of Rico Priem, with his memory living on in the hearts of his colleagues and loved ones. The outpouring of love and support from the 9-1-1 community reflects the deep impact he had on those around him. As the crew navigates the grief of losing a cherished member, they are reminded of the fragility of life and the need to prioritize safety and well-being in their daily work. Priem’s legacy as a dedicated and passionate professional will be remembered by all who knew him, and his absence leaves a void that will be felt for years to come.
