By Tom Tapp
Publication Date: 2026-02-19 21:50:00
Jason Shumaker, a veteran communications executive whose tenures at MTV and VH1 saw him play key roles in support of Ru Paul’s Drag Race, The Shannara Chronicles and the MTV Video Music Awards, passed away on February 16 from complications with acute myeloid leukemia. He was 55 years old.
Born on February 11, 1971, Shumaker made his mark as lead publicist on RuPaul’s Drag Race. As Manager of Communications and Public Affairs at Logo/VH1, he helped launch the the Emmy-winning series in 2010. Promoted to Director, he became member of Logo’s senior team and key publicist for network President Lisa Sherman and supported shows such as Celebrity Rehab Dr. Drew, VH1 Storytellers and VH1 Divas.
In 2013, he became Senior Director of Communication at MTV, where he managed initiatives spanning MTV, MTV2, MTV Live, MTV Classic and mtvU, including scripted and reality series, specials, music, digital, mobile, social, editorials and brand communications. His oversight…