Norman Jewison, Director of “The Thomas Crown Affair” and “Moonstruck” Dies at 97
Norman Jewison, a masterful director known for his contributions to the film industry with movies like “The Thomas Crown Affair” and “Moonstruck,” has passed away at the age of 97. His family announced that he died at his home on Saturday, although no further details have been provided about the cause of death.
Throughout his career, Jewison’s films garnered numerous accolades, with 12 actors receiving Oscar nominations for their performances in his movies. Additionally, five of his films were nominated for the prestigious Best Picture Oscar. One of the recurring themes in Jewison’s work was his exploration of social injustice.
Jewison initially made a name for himself working on musical specials for television, including a memorable Judy Garland special for CBS. However, he soon transitioned to the big screen and achieved great success.
Some of Jewison’s most notable achievements came in the form of Oscar nominations for Best Director and Best Picture. His films “Fiddler on the Roof” (1971) and “Moonstruck” (1987), starring Cher, received nominations in both categories. He also received a nomination for the 1967 film “In the Heat of the Night,” which went on to win the Best Picture award. Jewison’s other nominations include “The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming” (1966) and “A Soldier’s Story” (1984).
Norman Jewison’s Encounter with Racism
Jewison, a Canadian filmmaker, once shared a personal story about experiencing racism during a trip to Memphis, Tennessee. While on leave from the Royal Canadian Navy, he hitchhiked from Chicago to Memphis and boarded a bus. However, he was confronted by a bus driver who pointed out a sign segregating Black and white passengers.
Feeling embarrassed and unsure of how to react, Jewison decided to get off the bus, leaving him stranded in the scorching sun. This incident left a lasting impact on him and became his first encounter with racial prejudice.
Later in his career, Jewison addressed racial injustice through his film “In the Heat of the Night.” Starring Rod Steiger as a racist police chief and Sidney Poitier as a Black detective, the movie depicted their collaboration to solve a murder.
During the 1968 Academy Awards, which were postponed for two days due to the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., Jewison attended King’s funeral. Though he ultimately lost the Best Director award to Mike Nichols for “The Graduate,” “In the Heat of the Night” went on to win five Oscars.
Director Proved He Could Work in Various Genres
Aside from exploring social issues, Jewison also showcased his versatility by directing films across different genres. In addition to his acclaimed dramas, he also delved into comedies, such as the award-winning “Moonstruck.” This film centered around an Italian American family in Brooklyn and garnered critical acclaim and commercial success.
Other notable films in Jewison’s extensive collection include “Send Me No Flowers” (1964), “The Cincinnati Kid” (1965), “Jesus Christ Superstar” (1973), “Rollerball” (1975), “F.I.S.T.” (1978), “…And Justice for All” (1979), “Agnes of God” (1985), and “Other People’s Money” (1991).
Norman Frederick Jewison was born on July 21, 1926, in Toronto, Canada. His parents operated a general store/post office in the city. From a young age, Jewison showed a passion for the arts, studying piano and music theory at the Royal Conservatory. He also actively participated in school productions and musical comedies.
Jewison is survived by his second wife, Lynne St. David, as well as his children Kevin (and his wife Suzanne), Michael (Anita), and Jenny (David). He also leaves behind his grandchildren Ella, Megan, Alexandra, Sam, and Henry. Celebrations of his life will be held in Los Angeles and Toronto.
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