Dennis Hammer

Television producer Dennis Hammer is best known for his work on the acclaimed science fiction/fantasy series "Heroes." His path to "Heroes" began at Los Angeles' Mark Taper Forum and Ahmanson Theater, where he worked in public relations. He made the jump to television in the early '80s with the help of producer Aaron Spelling. Hammer worked first as a casting associate on Spelling's "The Love Boat" and "Hotel." He stepped up to casting director in 1983 on another Spelling production, the made-for-TV movie "Making of a Male Model," on which he also garnered his first associate producer credit. He took on producer duties on "The Love Boat" and "Hotel" in 1984 and 1987 respectively. After both shows had drawn to a close, he moved on to produce Spelling's latest drama "Dynasty." Through the '90s, Hammer built up his reputation producing a string of made-for-TV movies based on Danielle Steel's romance novels. This included dramas like "Heartbeat," "Once in a Lifetime," and "Remembrance." The adaptations were successful and led to more work on made-for-TV movies and miniseries. In 2004, he joined the producers of the long-running crime drama "Crossing Jordan," which was created by Tim Kring. When Kring began development on a new drama that would center on ordinary people with extraordinary abilities, he brought Hammer on board. "Heroes" debuted in 2006, and became a hit with critics and audiences in short order. During the series' four-season run, Hammer earned much acclaim, including an Emmy nomination and a BAFTA award.