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Television's Fred Smith, Influential Bassist, Passes Away at 77

2/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Fred Smith, the 77-year-old bass player for Television, died on Thursday.
Television confirmed his death on Instagram, and Jimmy Rip praised Smith's humor and musical talent.
Smith began his career with Angel and the Snake.
He joined Blondie before replacing Richard Hell in Television in 1975.
After Television broke up in 1978, he collaborated with Tom Verlaine and The Roches.

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Story summary

Fred Smith, the 77-year-old bass player for Television, died on Thursday.
Television confirmed his death on Instagram, and Jimmy Rip praised Smith's humor and musical talent.
Smith began his career with Angel and the Snake.
He joined Blondie before replacing Richard Hell in Television in 1975.
After Television broke up in 1978, he collaborated with Tom Verlaine and The Roches.