Kevin Arkadie, co-creator of New York Undercover and NYPD Blue writer, dies at 68

Kevin Arkadie, an Emmy-nominated television writer and producer best known for co-creating the groundbreaking police drama New York Undercover, has died at 68 years old. His death was confirmed by family members, though a cause has not been publicly disclosed.

Arkadie co-created New York Undercover alongside Dick Wolf, and the series debuted in 1994. The show was widely praised for its cultural impact, becoming the first network police drama to feature Black and Latino lead characters. It ran for four seasons and remains an important milestone in television history.

In addition to New York Undercover, Arkadie had an extensive career working on some of television’s most respected dramas. His writing and producing credits include NYPD Blue, Chicago Hope, The Shield, Soul Food, and Law & Order. Over the course of his career, he earned multiple Emmy nominations for his work.

Born in Washington, D.C., Arkadie began his career in theater and education before transitioning into television. He became known for his character-driven storytelling and his ability to tackle complex social themes through crime and medical dramas.

Colleagues and family members remembered Arkadie as a passionate storyteller and mentor whose work helped shape modern television drama. His influence extended beyond individual shows, leaving a lasting mark on the genre and opening doors for more inclusive storytelling.

Kevin Arkadie’s death marks the loss of a significant creative force in television, remembered for both his influential body of work and his role in expanding representation on network TV.