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Ted Kotcheff, Acclaimed Director of “Rambo” and “Weekend at Bernie’s,” Dies at 94
Celebrated filmmaker Ted Kotcheff, the director behind Hollywood box office successes such as “Weekend at Bernie’s” and the original “Rambo” movie, “First Blood,” has died at the age of 94. Known for his versatility across genres, Kotcheff’s career spanned decades and included both critically acclaimed dramas and popular comedies.
Filmmaker’s Passing Confirmed
The Canadian director’s family verified Kotcheff’s death in a statement issued to the Canadian news publication The Globe and Mail. Reports indicate he passed away on Thursday, April 10.
A Diverse Directorial Career
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While perhaps most recognized for directing Sylvester Stallone in the iconic action film “First Blood” (1982), which introduced the character of John Rambo, Kotcheff garnered significant recognition for his comedic work. His comedy filmography features successful titles like “Fun With Dick and Jane” (1977) and the cult classic “Weekend at Bernie’s” (1989).
His wide-ranging directorial credits also include the impactful 1979 sports drama “North Dallas Forty,” starring Nick Nolte, and the 1992 dramedy “Folks!” featuring Tom Selleck.
Transition to Television
After an extensive 60-year career in filmmaking, Kotcheff transitioned his talents to television. His final credited role was as an executive producer for the long-running “Law & Order” spin-off, “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” He held this position for 13 seasons, according to Variety.
Principled Stance on “Rambo” Sequels
Despite being prominently known for “First Blood” and establishing the iconic persona of Vietnam War veteran John Rambo, Kotcheff reportedly declined multiple offers to direct sequels to the action film. This decision stemmed from his opposition to the Vietnam War.
Kotcheff’s Views on War and Sequels
“They approached me for the first sequel, and after reviewing the script, I commented, ‘In the original movie, he doesn’t kill anyone. In this sequel, he eliminates 75 people,’” Kotcheff recounted in a 2016 interview with Filmmaker Magazine.
“It appeared to be glorifying the Vietnam War, which I considered to be one of the most senseless wars in history,” he expressed. “Fifty-five thousand young Americans perished, and countless veterans committed suicide. I couldn’t betray my principles to create that kind of film. Undoubtedly, I could be a wealthy man today – that sequel generated $300 million.”
Tributes from Colleagues
Peter Bart, who produced the 1977 comedy “Fun With Dick and Jane,” starring Jane Fonda and George Segal, paid tribute to Kotcheff following news of the director’s passing.
“Ted Kotcheff infused his films with genuine wit and humanity,” Bart, 92, remarked about his late friend and colleague, as reported by Deadline. “He possessed the ability to elicit laughter from our human flaws in ‘Weekend at Bernie’s’ and from our vulnerabilities in ‘Fun with Dick and Jane.’ Regardless of the project, he brought immense humanity to his work and cultivated deep affection among his actors.”
Survived by Family
Kotcheff is survived by his wife, Laifun Chung, and their two children, Alexandra and Thomas. He also had three additional children – Aaron, Katrina, and Joshua – from his previous marriage to actress Sylvia Kay.
Cause of Death Undisclosed
At this time, the cause of death has not been made public.