Israeli television producer Dana Eden, known for her work on the award-winning spy thriller Tehran, was found dead in a hotel room in Athens, Greek authorities said.
The 52 year-old was in the Greek capital for work related to the fourth season of Tehran, an Apple TV+ series. Her body was discovered in a central Athens hotel room on February 15, and local police confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of death.
As per a report by The New York Post, Eden’s body was discovered by her brother after he became concerned when she failed to respond to his text messages, according to broadcaster Kan.
According to Greek officials, there were no immediate signs of foul play and early reports indicated that authorities are examining the circumstances of her death, including the possibility of suicide. Following this, a post-mortem examination has been ordered.
Eden was a prominent figure in Israel’s television industry and she co-created and produced Tehran, a political espionage drama following an undercover Mossad agent operating in Iran. The series, which premiered in 2020, received international recognition, including an International Emmy Award.
Production for the upcoming season had been taking place in Greece, with Athens serving as a filming location for parts of the series in recent years. Israeli media reported that Eden had traveled to Athens as part of ongoing work commitments tied to the show.
Tributes from colleagues and members of the Israeli entertainment industry began appearing on social media following news of her death, with many describing her as a creative force behind one of Israel’s most successful television exports.
Greek police said standard procedures are being followed in the investigation and that authorities are awaiting forensic examination results before releasing further details. Apple TV+ and representatives connected to the production have not issued detailed public comments at this stage.
Tehran has been praised for its tense storytelling and international cast, building a global audience since its debut. The series is regarded as one of Israel’s most high-profile television productions in recent years.
Israeli TV Industry Mourns Eden, Calls Her a Pioneering Force
Leaders in Israeli television expressed profound grief over Dana Eden’s passing, calling her a pivotal figure in the nation’s entertainment industry.
“Dana was among the senior figures in the Israeli television industry and was a central figure in the creation and leadership of some of the corporation’s most prominent and influential productions,” the corporation said.
In addition to Tehran, Eden had created Saving the Wildlife, She Has It, and Shakshouka. The third season of Tehran debuted on Apple TV+ on January 9, after its original July release was delayed following Israel’s 12-day war with Iran.
The series won an International Emmy Award in 2021 and was nominated for a Critics Choice Award in 2023 for Best Foreign Language Series, highlighting its global acclaim, according to The New York Post.
Local Greek outlet Ta Nea reported that bruises were visible on Eden’s neck and lower body. However, the production company behind the series rejected speculation suggesting foul play.
“The production company wants to make it clear that the rumors of the death being criminal or nationalistic are not true and baseless,” a spokesperson for Donna and Shula Productions told The Times of Israel.
“We call on the media and the public not to publish unfounded theories and to act with responsibility and sensitivity. This is a moment of immense pain for the family, friends, and colleagues. We want to preserve Dana’s dignity and her privacy,” it added.