Jon Landau, an Oscar-winning producer known for his work with filmmaker James Cameron on “Titanic” and the “Avatar” series, has passed away at the age of 63.
Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman revealed Landau’s passing in a statement on Saturday; however, a cause of death was not given.
“Jon was a visionary who brought some of the most memorable stories to life on the big screen with his remarkable talent and enthusiasm. He will be greatly missed for his incredible contributions to the film industry, which have left an enduring legacy. In addition to being a well-known and prosperous producer, Bergman stated, “He was a real force of nature who inspired everyone around him.”
Beginning as a production manager in the 1980s, Landau worked his way up to become a producer on James Cameron’s historic picture “Titanic,” which won 11 Oscars, including Best Picture, and became the first film to break the $1 billion mark at the global box office.
“I can’t act and I can’t compose and I can’t do visual effects. I guess that’s why I’m producing,” Landau humorously remarked while accepting the award with Cameron.
Jon Landau is survived by his wife of nearly 40 years, Julie, and their sons, Jamie and Jodie. His partnership with Cameron continued with the ground-breaking sci-fi epic “Avatar,” which broke box office records and is still one of the highest-grossing films of all time. Landau played a crucial role in the “Avatar” franchise, overseeing its development and defending its ambitious sequels.
