Star Wars Producer Gary Kurtz Passed Away at 78

Star Wars producer Gary Kurtz passed away at the age of 78. His passing on Sunday night was a result of cancer. Those of us at Chip and Co are saddened to hear of his passing.

Kurtz served as producer for both Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back. Although his partnership with George Lucas did start with the Star Wars franchise.

Joining Lucas as a producer on the 1973 hit American Graffiti was the first time these two men worked together.  Later Kurtz played a role in getting Fox to take a chance on the Flash Gordon series as well. And he again persuaded Fox to take a chance on a film that has made such an impact on Pop Culture – both then and today.  The first of the Star Wars movies!

He went on to produce the second film in the franchise as well – The Empire Strikes Back – before parting ways with Lucas.

Those in the Star Wars family have shared memories of Kurtz since learning of his passing:

I've lost a lifelong friend. The world has lost a kind, wise, multi-talented artist & filmmaker whose contributions to cinema cannot be overstated. It was an honor to have worked with him & I know I am better man just for having known him.#RIPGaryKurtz pic.twitter.com/1tNRAgCGbq

— Mark Hamill (@MarkHamill) September 24, 2018

RIP Gary Kurtz. A great filmmaker and man has just passed. Without him there would have been no "force". You will be remembered in the incredible films you made that touched the lives of millions. #ESB #starwars #americangraffiti @starwars pic.twitter.com/0D9RyP3DJH

— Peter Mayhew Foundation (@TheWookieeRoars) September 24, 2018

The thoughts and prayers of all of us at Chip and Co go out to Gary Kurtz’s family and friends.  He will be missed by many.

Source: EW

Photo Credit; Lucasfilm/EW

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