Vale: Leslie Nassar

Social media pioneer Leslie Nassar, who set up Q&A‘s Twitter moderation functionality, has died aged 43.

He was killed in an alleged hit-and-run in Idaho, in the United States.

Nassar founded and managed TweeVee TV, which moderated tweets for the live broadcast of Q&A.

Q&A executive producer Peter McEvoy said, “His work helped Q&A involve viewers across Australia as well as panellists and politicians in a truly national conversation.

“It breaks my heart to think of all the brilliant ideas that will never be realised without his talent.”

ABC media manager Sally Jackson, tweeted, “Adding my voice to the chorus of grief for @leslienassar, who was so scary-smart, talented, funny and just such a nice bloke.”

He also wrote a satirical column at Crikey, Department of Australia, and co-founded and directed Sydney-based digital product studio Wrangling Cats with Andrea Horton. He is also credited with playing a central role in launching ABC RN’s podcast capabilities.

Q&A will pay tribute to him on-air and tonight’s broadcast will be dedicated to the widely respected digital producer.

A GoFundMe page has been set up in his memory, to benefit family.

Source: ABC