Norman Jewison, the acclaimed director known for films like “In the Heat of the Night” and “Moonstruck,” has passed away at the age of 97, according to his publicist. The Canadian-born Jewison had a prolific career, working with renowned actors such as Steve McQueen, Denzel Washington, Sidney Poitier, and Cher. He directed films across various genres, but he was most recognized for his ability to tackle weighty social issues.
Jewison began his career in television before transitioning to Hollywood in the early 1960s. He achieved success with movies like “40 Pounds of Trouble” alongside Tony Curtis, and later collaborated with Doris Day and James Garner on different projects. In 1966, Jewison received an Oscar nomination for best picture for his offbeat comedy “The Russians are Coming, the Russians are Coming.”
However, it was with the groundbreaking film “In the Heat of the Night” that Jewison solidified his status as a significant director. The movie, starring Rod Steiger as a racist Southern sheriff and Sidney Poitier as his opposite, won the Academy Award for best picture, with Jewison receiving a nomination for best director.
Jewison continued his success with films like “The Thomas Crown Affair,” featuring Steve McQueen, and a screen adaptation of the musical “Fiddler on the Roof.” He also directed the rock opera “Jesus Christ Superstar” and worked with actors like James Caan, Al Pacino, and Cher in subsequent projects.
One of Jewison’s most acclaimed works came in 1987 with “Moonstruck,” a romantic comedy starring Cher and Olympia Dukakis, both of whom won Oscars for their performances. The film also introduced Nicolas Cage to the world. Throughout his career, Jewison collaborated with notable actors such as Bruce Willis, Robert Downey Jr., and Whoopi Goldberg.
In 1999, Jewison directed Denzel Washington in “The Hurricane,” a biographical drama that earned Washington a Best Actor award for his portrayal of a boxer falsely accused of murder.
Born on July 21, 1926, in Toronto, Canada, Jewison began acting at a young age and later served in the Royal Canadian Navy. He earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Toronto’s Victoria College. Jewison’s early career included work at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, where he wrote, directed, and produced popular musicals, dramas, and comedy-variety shows.
Jewison’s contributions to the film industry were recognized through various honors and awards. In 1982, he was named an Officer of the Order of Canada, followed by his induction into the Order of Ontario in 1989. In 1992, he received the Companion of the Order of Canada, the highest civilian award in the country.
Norman Jewison’s passing marks the end of an era for the film industry. His thought-provoking films, ability to tackle social issues, and collaborations with talented actors have left an indelible mark on cinema.
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