CHATSWORTH, Calif.—Ric Rodney, who worked for decades as a lighting technician on adult sets, was discovered dead at his Burbank apartment the morning of Tuesday, June 11, after failing to show up for a scheduled shoot in Las Vegas, AVN has learned. He was 59.
Though neither the exact time nor the cause of Rodney's death have yet been determined, veteran director/cinematographer David Lord told AVN, "We were on set for Anatomik [Media] in Vegas. It was 9:07 and Ric was never late. I texted and called. Nothing. 9:27 we knew something bad happened. We figured out that [a mutual acquaintance] lived close by and asked him to go check on him.
"When he arrived, we found out the manager of the apartment building had already called a wellness check, and they found him deceased," Lord continued. "The coroner was already on the way."
News of Rodney's passing surfaced later the same day on social media, with stunned reactions pouring forth from industry colleagues including Brad Armstrong, Shaun Rivera, Erica McLean, Julia Ann, Stormy Daniels, Barrett Blade, Andy Appleton, Marcus London, Mike Quasar, Joy King and many more.
"He was literally the kindest man I've ever met," Lord told AVN today. "Generous and taught me so much. Even in the past few months gave me a new perspective on things. I will miss him but carry on and give to others what he gave me."
Added Anatomik Media co-owners Dan and Rhiannon, "Ric was an integral member of our crew family for the last three years. We'll miss his big smile and even bigger hugs. It's a huge loss for everyone that knew him. Our heart goes out to his family and longtime friends."
A memorial service for Rodney is planned for this Sunday, June 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Rancho Providencia, located at 10945 Old Santa Susana Pass Rd. in Chatsworth. Organizers ask that only industry friends and co-workers attend.
To RSVP, email [email protected].
Flower image by Jan Van Bizar from Pixabay
