We are saddened to share the news of the passing of renowned film director and producer Norman Jewison. He was 97 years old and left an indelible mark on the film industry with his captivating storytelling and diverse filmography.
Jewison's career took off in 1967 when he directed the critically acclaimed 'In the Heat of the Night,' a groundbreaking racial drama that won the Academy Award for Best Picture. This success was followed by directing popular films such as 'Moonstruck,' 'The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming,' and 'The Thomas Crown Affair.' He also helmed iconic film musicals like 'Fiddler on the Roof' and 'Jesus Christ Superstar.'
While Jewison began his career with lighthearted Doris Day comedies, he soon began exploring social issues through his work. 'In the Heat of the Night' marked the shift in his filmography as he delved into stories that tackled racial tensions, such as 'A Soldier's Story' and 'The Landlord.' However, he never abandoned his knack for comedies and romances, as his filmography demonstrates a wide range of genres.
Despite achieving box office success and captivating audiences, Jewison's work was not always met with critical acclaim. Nonetheless, he received seven Academy Award nominations throughout his career. Although he never won a competitive Oscar, he was honored with the prestigious Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences in 1999, recognizing his contributions to the industry.
Jewison's journey into the world of film began in 1961 when he moved to Hollywood to pursue a film career after making a name for himself in British, Canadian, and American television. His early films, such as '40 Pounds of Trouble' and 'The Thrill of It All,' starring Tony Curtis and Doris Day respectively, caught the attention of Universal Studios, who signed him on for a seven-year contract.
Throughout his career, Jewison effortlessly transitioned between television and film. While his filmography grew, he continued to contribute to television production, including serving as an executive producer on Judy Garland's variety show.
Jewison's directorial triumphs include 'The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming' and 'The Thomas Crown Affair,' both showcasing his ability to captivate audiences with their unique premises and strong performances. However, the pinnacle of his career came with 'In the Heat of the Night,' which not only won the Best Picture Oscar but also earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Director.
Continuing to push boundaries and explore a variety of genres, Jewison successfully adapted Broadway hits like 'Fiddler on the Roof' and 'Jesus Christ Superstar' for the big screen. Although he faced some career disappointments—such as the less successful 'Gaily, Gaily' and 'F.I.S.T.'—he always managed to bounce back, delivering critically acclaimed films like 'A Soldier's Story' and the widely adored 'Moonstruck.'
'Moonstruck' remains one of Jewison's most celebrated films, winning Cher and Olympia Dukakis Academy Awards for their performances and receiving nominations for Best Picture and Best Director. It revitalized MGM as a major revenue producer, solidifying Jewison's reputation as a talented storyteller and director.
In the later years of his career, Jewison continued to experiment with different genres and subjects. He made notable films like 'The Hurricane,' which recounted the inspiring true story of boxer Rubin 'Hurricane' Carter, and 'The Statement,' a compelling thriller starring Michael Caine.
Jewison's impact on the film industry extended beyond the big screen. He served as the co-chair of the Canadian Center for Advanced Film Studies and contributed to numerous television projects, earning Emmy nominations for his work in the medium.
Norman Jewison's legacy as a master filmmaker will live on through his body of work and the countless lives he touched with his stories. His ability to navigate themes of race, love, and social justice speaks volumes about his lasting contribution to the art form.
We extend our condolences to his second wife, Lynne St. David, his children, Kevin, Michael, and Jenny, and his grandchildren Ella, Megan, Alexandra, Sam, and Henry. Norman Jewison's impact on the film industry will forever be remembered, and his films continue to entertain and inspire audiences around the world.
