It’s a sad day for the Star Wars universe as one of its most influential persons has unfortunately passed away. Filmmaker, producer and prime figure in the Star Wars Universe, Gary Kurtz has unfortunately passed away at age 78 from cancer on September 23, 2018. Kurtz is most notable for his collaboration with George Lucas having produced American Graffiti and Star Wars along with its sequel The Empire Strikes Back.
Born in 1940, Kurtz got his start in the world of film in in 1965, serving as an assistant director in Monte Hellman’s western Ride in the Whirlwind starring Jack Nicholson. His film career was interrupted when he served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1966 to 1969. After his time in the military, Kurtz resumed his career in filmmaking, forming a successful partnership with George Lucas. Kurtz produced the acclaimed George Lucas film, American Graffiti with The Godfather director, Francis Ford Coppola, earning him a Best Picture Oscar nomination.
History was made when Kurtz produced George Lucas’ seminal Star Wars which became one of the most acclaimed and successful films of all time. Star Wars became iconic in popular culture, placing Kurtz as one of the most influential people in the world of film. Kurtz also produced its sequel, The Empire Strikes Back which can be regarded as one of the greatest films of all time. Unfortunately, Kurtz did not return to produce Return of the Jedi, leaving the series all together but it’s safe to say he made his mark. Kurtz continued his run in film after Star Wars having served as producer for fantasy films such as The Dark Crystal and Return to Oz.
Below is a statement issued by his family per Fantha Tracks:
With deep love and respect, the family of Gary Kurtz is sad to share that he has passed away. He died from cancer on September 23rd 2018, in North London, England.
Gary was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, colleague, and mentor, whose work and talent spanned filmmaking, photography, music, and cinema history. He was a Marine, a world traveller, an outdoorsman, and a kind, compassionate human being.
His life’s work was to share the wonder of audio-visual storytelling through the art of film. Well-known for his work as the producer of American Graffiti, Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, and The Dark Crystal, Gary was passionate about telling stories that shared the humanity of characters in entertaining ways for audiences around the world.
Gary was a magnificent man, who will be hugely missed. His whole family thanks you for your loving thoughts.
Kurtz is just as important of a figure in the world of Star Wars as George Lucas is and without him, we wouldn’t have been able to visit the galaxy far, far away. Just like Carrie Fisher, Kurtz will remain in history as one of the most prominent figures in Star Wars and film.
Source: Fantha Tracks
