Ace filmmaker Richard Donner, best known for helming the original ‘Superman’ film, ‘Lethal Weapon’ film series and ‘The Goonies’, has passed away at the age of 91. Donner’s production company confirmed the news to Variety that the director breathed his last on Monday (July 5).
Details on when exactly he passed away and under what circumstances have not yet been disclosed. The beloved Hollywood director has played a pivotal role in delivering the most iconic movies to grace the big screens over the years, especially an incredible run of pictures from the late 70s throughout the 80s.
The sudden news of filmmaker Donner’s demise has shattered the entire Hollywood industry, following which heartfelt tributes are pouring in for the late star. Director Steven Spielberg, who wrote the story for Donner’s film, ‘The Goonies’, remembered him in a statement to Variety.
"He had such a powerful command of his movies and was so gifted across so many genres. Being in his circle was akin to hanging out with your favourite coach, smartest professor, fiercest motivator, most endearing friend, staunchest ally, and -- of course -- the greatest Goonie of all. He was all kid. All heart. All the time. I can`t believe he`s gone, but his husky, hearty laugh will stay with me always.” Spielberg said.
"Mel Gibson, who starred alongside Danny Glover in Donner’s ‘Lethal Weapon’ movie series as well as in ‘Conspiracy Theory’ with Julia Roberts, also mourned the demise of the legendary director. "Donner! My friend, my mentor. Oh, the things I learned from him! He undercut his own talent and greatness with a huge chunk of humility referring to himself as `merely a traffic cop.` He left his ego at the door and required that of others," Mel said in a statement to Variety.
From close friends and family to members of the film and TV industry, including director Edgar Wright, Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige and actor Ben Stiller among others, everyone took to their social media to pay their condolences to Donner.
The legend got his first big directing break with the 1976 cult classic horror film ‘The Omen’, which solidified his foothold in the industry and led to his next major studio film, ‘Superman’ (also the original) that paved the path for countless other flicks, including ‘Goonies’, and all of the ‘Lethal Weapon’ movie series, starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover.
His other notable film director credits include iconic movies such as ‘Scrooged', ‘The Toy’, ‘Maverick’, ‘Ladyhawke’, ‘Assassins’, ’16 Blocks’, ‘Timeline’ and more. Just last year, he also announced a desire to direct the 5th installment of ‘Lethal Weapon’, and reportedly it was in the works too. Donner is survived by his wife, Lauren Shuler Donner.
(With ANI inputs)