In a somber turn of events, the entertainment world has bid farewell to one of its brightest luminaries. Norman Jewison, the visionary director behind the iconic film ‘Moonstruck,’ has passed away at the age of 97.
This cinematic maestro, hailing from the heart of Canada, breathed his last breath in the comfort of his own home, as confirmed by his spokesperson, Jeff Sanderson, in an announcement that resonated throughout Hollywood.
Jewison’s journey in the world of entertainment began in the realm of television, where he cut his teeth directing musical spots that would soon set the stage for a remarkable career. In 1958, he took the helm of “Your Hit Parade” for CBS, and his directorial prowess shone brightly in productions such as “The Andy Williams Show,” two unforgettable Harry Belafonte specials, and award-winning Judy Garland extravaganzas.
However, it was his foray into the realm of cinema that would etch his name into the annals of history. With seven Oscar nominations under his belt, including three for Best Director and four for Best Picture, Jewison left an indelible mark on the silver screen. His masterpieces included the iconic 1967 film “In the Heat of the Night,” the original rendition of “Fiddler on the Roof,” the thrilling 1968 masterpiece “The Thomas Crown Affair,” and the heartwarming 1987 romantic comedy “Moonstruck,” starring Nicolas Cage and Cher.
The collective accolades for Jewison’s films are nothing short of awe-inspiring, amassing an astonishing 46 Oscar nominations and claiming 12 of those coveted golden statues. His brilliance extended beyond film, as he also clinched three Emmy Awards and played a pivotal role in bringing “Jesus Christ Superstar” to television screens.
In recognition of his remarkable contributions to the world of cinema, Norman Jewison was honored with the prestigious Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences in 1999. A decade later, in 2010, the Directors Guild of America bestowed upon him the Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to his enduring impact on the industry.
His native Canada recognized his greatness by appointing him as an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1982, later elevating him to the Order of Ontario in 1989. In 1992, he received the highest civilian honor, the Companion of the Order of Canada, for his exceptional contributions.
What set Jewison apart was his unwavering commitment to authenticity. He firmly believed in the magic of shooting on location, capturing the essence of a place to infuse his films with a palpable sense of reality. As he once stated, “You’ve got to get out and shoot where it really happens.” His dedication to this philosophy resulted in memorable moments, like the iconic gate scene in “In the Heat of the Night.”
In his quest for authenticity, Jewison turned to cities like Boston and Chicago, imbuing them with cinematic grandeur that had previously been untapped. As he eloquently put it, “These are cities with tremendous atmosphere, an excitement that hangs in the air without anyone realizing it.”
Roger Ebert, the legendary film critic, aptly described Jewison as a director with a “satirist’s sense of humor” who brought an unparalleled sense of joy to the sets of his films, with laughter and jokes serving as his companions.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Jewison cherished his family. His first marriage to Margaret Ann Dixon lasted from 1953 until her passing in 2004, and together, they raised three children and welcomed five grandchildren into their lives. In 2010, he embarked on a new chapter of love with his second wife, Lynne St. David, a love that remained steadfast until the end.
Norman Jewison leaves behind a legacy that will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the indelible mark he has left on the world of entertainment. To honor his memory, celebrations of his life will be held in both Los Angeles and Toronto.
The silver screen has dimmed with his departure, but the magic of his films will forever illuminate our hearts.
