By Jenny Wells-Hosley and Dan Knapp
LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 9, 2025) — James “Jimmy” Dunne, a 1977 University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences graduate, has built a successful and wide-ranging career in entertainment — as a songwriter, composer, television and film producer, and entrepreneur.
James “Jimmy” Dunne, a 1977 UK graduate, has built a successful and wide-ranging career in entertainment. He will be inducted into the university's Hall of Distinguished Alumni this fall. Photo provided by Dunne.As a student at UK, Dunne found early creative outlets through writing and music. He worked as a writer for the Kentucky Kernel and was deeply influenced by professors who encouraged his passions. After graduation, Dunne moved to Los Angeles to launch his career, working as a writer and producer on hit shows like “Happy Days,” writing