Peter E. Strauss, a producer behind recent films like The Jacket and Air who served as an executive at Lionsgate, Mandalay Pictures, IMG and Allied Artists, has died. He was 83.
Strauss died on Oct. 6 at his home in Beverly Hills. At his side were his wife of 46 years, Susan, and his son, Jonathan.
Strauss most recently served as executive vice president at Mandalay for 25 years. He well-known for his work in expanding independent cinema, pioneering foreign sales and off-balance-sheet financing for independent films.
Prior to Mandalay, Strauss worked as president of Lionsgate Entertainment, which he helped establish with founder Frank Giustra in 1997. He also oversaw the production of over 30 films, including Phil Collins’ Buster, Charlie and Martin Sheen’s Cadence and the Best of the Best series, while president, CEO and chairman of the International Movie Group.
Strauss also worked as executive vice president of Rastar Films, Ray Stark’s production company, in the 1970s, where he helped produce 1979’s The Electric Horseman and 1979’s The Villain. In the 1980s, Strauss founded Panache Productions, and oversaw 1983’s Dance of the Dwarfs and 1986 Thunder Run.
Strauss began his career at Allied Artists, where he eventually became the executive vice president and helped produce films such as Cabaret, which won the 1973 Oscar for best picture. He also oversaw 1973’s Papillon and 1975’s The Man Who Would Be King.
Strauss attended Oberlin College, the London School of Economics and Columbia University School of Law. He was a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Strauss is survived by his wife, Susan, his son, Jonathan, daughter-in-law, Elizabeth and grandchildren, Teddy and Caroline.
A private graveside service was held on Oct. 8, and a celebration of his life will be announced at a later date.
