Moonves was instrumental in the creation of such hits as “Friends,” “E.R.,” “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” “NCIS” and “The Big Bang Theory,” and he grudgingly served as longtime foil of David Letterman, CBS’ former late night talk show host, as the two had a stormy relationship.

The strong-willed executive, who began his career as a middling actor, assumed control of a moribund TV network in 1995 and molded CBS into America’s most-watched television service. He innately understood the value of hit programming, and demanded that cable operators pay to carry CBS station signals — helping ensure a revenue stream that has become crucial to the survival of broadcast TV. He recognized the value of older shows in CBS’ library, such as “I Love Lucy” and “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.”

Moonves also was one of America’s highest-paid executives. Last year he collected a compensation package valued at nearly $70 million. Much of that was from CBS stock, which he guided to great heights. Forbes has estimated Moonves’ wealth at $700 million.

CBS shares closed down 2.6 percent Monday, to $46.82. They are down about 18 percent this year.