Jon Landau, renowned producer of some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters, died on Friday in Los Angeles at 63.
Landau’s notable career included a prolific partnership with director James Cameron, producing hits like “Titanic” and the “Avatar” series, revolutionizing modern cinema.
Born on July 23, 1960, in New York City to Hollywood producers Ely and Edie Landau, Jon’s early film exposure and education at the USC School of Cinematic Arts paved the way for his future achievements. He started as a production manager on films like “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” (1989) and “Dick Tracy” (1990).
As executive VP of feature productions at 20th Century Fox, Landau oversaw successful films such as “Home Alone” (1990), “Mrs. Doubtfire” (1993), and “Speed” (1994), where he first collaborated with Cameron on “True Lies” (1994).
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Their partnership soared with “Titanic” (1997), the first film to gross over $1 billion and winner of 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Landau humorously acknowledged his diverse production skills during his acceptance speech.
“Avatar” (2009) later surpassed “Titanic” in box office earnings, grossing nearly $3 billion. It received nine Oscar nominations, winning three. Its sequel, “Avatar: The Way of Water,” premiered in 2022.
Apart from his work with Cameron, Landau was COO of Lightstorm Entertainment and helped develop a Walt Disney World attraction based on the “Avatar” films.
James Cameron lauded Landau as a great producer and human being. He is survived by his wife Julie, their sons Jamie and Jodie, his brother Les, and sisters Tina and Kathy. Tributes from industry figures, including Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, and Zoe Saldaña, underscored his significant impact and legacy.
