Julian Brodsky, key figure in Comcast's rise, dies aged 93

Brodsky joined Ralph Roberts and Daniel Aaron in 1963, after Roberts acquired a cable television system in Tupelo, Mississippi. The venture had about 1,200 customers. Brodsky’s financial work helped the partners secure funding and expand the business, which is now headquartered in Philadelphia and had annual revenue of $124 billion.

He was Comcast’s longtime chief financial officer and played a key part in the company’s 1972 public offering. He also helped steer major acquisitions and supported the company’s early focus on internet opportunities. In 1999, he started Comcast’s venture capital fund. He became vice chairman in 2004 and retired in 2011.

Comcast chairman Brian L. Roberts called Brodsky a gifted financial leader and an important figure in cable television. Roberts said Brodsky was a close friend and trusted colleague of his father, Ralph, and helped establish company standards for financial integrity and respect for colleagues.

Born in Philadelphia in 1933, Brodsky attended the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and served two years in the Army. Before joining Comcast, he worked as an accountant. He also served as a trustee of the Philadelphia Museum of Art for nearly three decades.

In October, Brodsky and Lois, his wife, committed $20 million to fund a learning and engagement center at the museum. He is survived by Lois, their three daughters, four grandchildren, a brother and a niece. A celebration of his life will be announced later; a private memorial service is planned.