Canadian Director Norman Jewison Dies at Age 97
Canadian film director Norman Jewison, known for his diverse range of acclaimed films such as “In the Heat of the Night,” “Moonstruck,” and “Fiddler on the Roof,” has passed away at the age of 97, his publicist confirmed. Jewison, a three-time Academy Award nominee and recipient of a lifetime achievement Oscar in 1999, died at his home on Saturday.
Born in Toronto, Jewison was considered one of the most influential directors of the late 20th century, renowned for his ability to create powerful films across various genres. His films received a total of 46 Academy Award nominations and won 12 Oscars. “In the Heat of the Night,” starring Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger, won the best picture Oscar in 1967. His 1987 romantic comedy “Moonstruck,” starring Cher and Nicolas Cage, became a beloved Hollywood classic, earning Cher the best actress Oscar for her performance.
Jewison’s experiences as a young man in 1940s America, witnessing racial discrimination against Black people in the South, greatly influenced his films. He explored themes of race in movies such as “In the Heat of the Night,” “A Soldier’s Story,” and “The Hurricane.” His works also included notable films like “The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming” (1966) and “Jesus Christ Superstar” (1973), showcasing his versatility as a director.
Apart from his successful career in filmmaking, Jewison was known for his liberal views and active participation in civil rights movements during the 1960s. This often drew criticism from conservatives, including tough-guy actor John Wayne, who clashed with Jewison over his film “The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming.”
Jewison’s contributions to the film industry were recognized with multiple nominations for best director at the Academy Awards, including for “In the Heat of the Night,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” and “Moonstruck.” Although he did not win in these categories, he was honored with the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award in 1999, celebrating his remarkable body of work.
Born on July 21, 1926, in Toronto, Jewison served in Canada’s navy during World War Two before embarking on a successful career as a TV director. He eventually transitioned to filmmaking, starting with the comedy “40 Pounds of Trouble” in 1962. Over the years, he directed numerous actors who received Oscar nominations for their performances, including Steiger, Cher, and Olympia Dukakis.
Jewison’s last film, “The Statement,” was released in 2003, concluding his illustrious career in the industry. In his parting words to young filmmakers, he emphasized the importance of storytelling that evokes emotions and reveals truths about humanity.
Norman Jewison’s death marks the end of an era for the film industry. His groundbreaking work and ability to create powerful narratives will be remembered and celebrated by audiences for generations to come..
