Hal Ross, whose career in television as a talent and literary agent spanned nearly 50 years, died July 30 at his home in Los Angeles. He was 86.

Ross co-founded the Ziegler-Ross Agency, where he was a pioneer in the TV packaging business and one of the first agents to represent a major sports figure when he negotiated Sandy Koufax’s blockbuster deal to become an analyst with NBC Sports in 1967. The Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher had suddenly retired after the 1966 season at the height of his career because of arm injuries.

During that time, Ross also packaged such hits as “Daniel Boone,” “Medical Center” and “M*A*S*H.” He later joined WMA as a senior vp, where he worked until his retirement in 1997.

Ross also executive produced the 2005 film version of “The Honeymooners” that starred Cedric the Entertainer.

A native Angeleno who attended Fairfax High School and UCLA, Ross served at various times as president of the Los Angeles Convention Center Authority, a trustee of the Otis Art Institute and a member of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and Los Angeles County Beaches Commission. A longtime member of the U.S. Selective Service System, Ross received numerous official commendations for his public service.

Survivors include his wife, Marcia; sons Matthew and Daniel; daughters-in-law Sari and Yolande; step-children Melissa and Michael; and grandchildren Asher, Dashiell, Elana, Erin and Nicholas.

A memorial service was held Aug. 3 at the Malibu Jewish Center & Synagogue.