Importance Score: 25 / 100 🔵
Celebrated Hollywood Publicist Marvin Levy Passes Away at 96
Marvin Levy, the esteemed publicist who represented Steven Spielberg for over four decades and uniquely distinguished in his field as an Oscar recipient, has died at the age of 96. A monumental figure in entertainment public relations, Levy’s career left an indelible mark on Hollywood. News of his passing is being mourned across the film industry.
A Titan of Film Publicity
Levy passed away on Monday in Los Angeles, surrounded by his family, representatives from Amblin Entertainment announced on Wednesday. The specific cause of death was not disclosed.
Steven Spielberg’s Tribute
Steven Spielberg expressed his profound sadness in a statement, saying, “Marvin’s departure is an immense loss for both myself and the broader industry. While numerous talented PR professionals exist, Marvin was truly exceptional. I am eternally grateful for our years of collaboration. Marvin consistently brought laughter and maintained a perpetual smile. We will deeply miss you, Marvin. You will forever remain in our hearts, and your memory will always evoke smiles.”
A Storied Career in Hollywood
Levy’s enduring partnership with Spielberg cemented his status as one of Hollywood’s most respected and renowned publicists. Spanning a remarkable 70 years, his career encompassed publicity campaigns for iconic cinematic works such as “Taxi Driver,” “Kramer vs. Kramer,” “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” “Back to the Future,” “Schindler’s List,” “Jurassic Park” and “Gladiator.” His contributions shaped the narrative around some of cinema’s most celebrated films.
Honorary Oscar Recognition
In a historic moment in 2018, Levy, a long-tenured member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ public relations branch, became the first and only publicist to receive an honorary Oscar. Prior to this unprecedented recognition, no publicist had ever been nominated for this prestigious accolade. This award highlighted his significant impact within the film academy and the public relations sphere of Hollywood.
Unexpected Honor
“It completely surprised me. I couldn’t have envisioned it,” Levy recounted to The Associated Press in 2018, regarding the honorary Oscar. “It’s not something I ever aspired to achieve. It wasn’t even on my list of goals.”
Early Life and Career Path
Born in Manhattan on November 16, 1928, Levy spent his childhood on the east side and studied at New York University. While a career in publicity wasn’t his initial ambition, he recognized his talent for language. Early in his career, he wrote questions for a television quiz program but was dismissed when a high-value question was answered prematurely.
From MGM to Spielberg
Levy’s initial foray into publicity was at MGM in New York. Despite his junior position preventing travel to Los Angeles, he contributed to campaigns for notable films like “Gigi” and “Ben-Hur.” By the time MGM planned a remake of “Mutiny on the Bounty,” Levy sought new opportunities. He then joined the firms of prominent publicists Arthur Canton and Bill Blowitz, subsequently moving to Columbia Pictures in California. This transition marked the beginning of his influential collaboration with Spielberg, shortly after the success of “Jaws.” Initially tasked solely with “Close Encounters,” Levy dedicated himself fully to Spielberg in 1982, establishing a long and fruitful professional relationship.
Career Highs and Lows
Throughout his illustrious career, Levy experienced numerous triumphs, but also recalled the disappointment when “Saving Private Ryan” did not win Best Picture at the 71st Academy Awards, losing to “Shakespeare in Love.”
“Toughest Night”
“That was the most challenging night of my professional life,” Levy admitted. Nevertheless, he maintained composure at the Governor’s Ball following the awards ceremony, demonstrating his professionalism.
Legacy and Recognition
Tom Hanks presented Levy with his honorary Oscar in 2018, acknowledging that, “It requires a certain type of storyteller to captivate an audience with a narrative without revealing its entirety.” This underscored Levy’s skill in crafting compelling film narratives for the public.
Unwavering Dedication
Levy remained steadfastly committed to Spielberg and Amblin Entertainment until his retirement in 2024. His passion for his work never diminished.
A Lucky Career
“How incredibly fortunate can one be? I truly mean it,” he expressed in 2018. “We have the privilege of working for the greatest filmmaker in the industry.”
Survived by Family
Marvin Levy is survived by his wife of 73 years, Carol, their two sons, Don and Doug, and two grandsons, Brian and Daniel. His legacy within Hollywood and the film industry will long endure.