Oscar-Winning Producer of "Titanic" and "Avatar," Jon Landau, Dies at 63

Hollywood is mourning the loss of Jon Landau, the renowned film producer behind blockbusters like "Titanic" and "Avatar," who passed away at the age of 63. The news was confirmed by Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman, who described Landau as a "visionary" in the industry.

Landau's exceptional talent and passion for storytelling brought some of the most unforgettable movies to life on the silver screen. His remarkable contributions and indelible mark on the film industry will be profoundly missed. Bergman further praised Landau as not only an iconic and successful producer, but also as an exceptional person and force of nature who inspired those around him.

Beginning his career in the 1980s, Landau initially worked as a production manager and co-producer on beloved films such as "Honey I Shrunk the Kids" (1989) and "Dick Tracy" (1990). It was through his collaboration with director James Cameron that Landau's career reached new heights. He joined Cameron's Lightstorm Entertainment production company as an executive and played a crucial role in bringing both "Titanic" and "Avatar" to fruition.

During the acceptance speech for "Titanic" when it won Best Picture in 1998, Landau humorously recognized his role as a producer, admitting that he couldn't act, compose or create visual effects. However, Landau's dedication to his craft was evident, and his ability to bring remarkable stories to life was unquestionable.

Landau's influence extended beyond his work on "Titanic" and "Avatar." He also oversaw successful films like "Home Alone," "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York," "Mrs. Doubtfire," and Cameron's "True Lies" during his time as an executive vice president of feature movies at 20th Century Fox, a position he attained at the young age of 29.

In a 2022 interview with The Associated Press during the post-production phase of "Avatar"'s sequel, "The Way of Water," Landau expressed that despite changes in the way people consume movies, the underlying reason for seeking out entertainment remains the same. People turn to films to escape the realities of the world, just as they did when the first "Avatar" was released.

Born in July 1960, Landau graduated from the University of Southern California's film school. He leaves behind his wife of almost four decades, Julie, their sons Jamie and Jodie, as well as two sisters and a brother.

The film industry has lost one of its truly talented visionaries with the passing of Jon Landau. His remarkable career and dedication to storytelling will continue to inspire filmmakers for years to come.