Cinema legend Roger Corman, 'King of B Movies,' dies at 79
Roger Corman, an acclaimed American producer, director, and actor, known as the "king of B movies," has passed away at the age of 79. His family made the announcement of his death.
8:18 AM EDT, May 12, 2024
Born in 1926 in Detroit, Michigan, Corman's life took a decisive turn after serving in the US Navy from 1944 to 1946, following the outbreak of World War II. He graduated from Stanford University with a degree in industrial engineering but soon discovered his passion lay in filmmaking rather than his studied field. Beginning his career at the independent studio American Releasing Company, later American International Pictures, Corman carved a niche for himself with his low-budget productions.
Specializing in films made on a shoestring budget, Corman’s early works in the 1950s targeted teenagers and spanned genres such as science fiction, monster movies, and horror. Throughout his career, he created over 400 films, earning him a spot in cinemas and on television around the globe. Notable works include "The Fall of the House of Usher," "The Pit and the Pendulum," "The Trip," and "The Little Shop of Horrors." His contributions to cinema were recognized in 2009 when he was honored with an Oscar for his lifetime achievements.
In his studios, emerging talents like Martin Scorsese with "Boxcar Bertha" and Francis Ford Coppola with "Dementia 13" embarked on their filmmaking journeys. Corman is credited with kickstarting numerous Hollywood careers, giving early opportunities to actors like Jack Nicholson and Robert De Niro.
Roger Corman has Passed Away at 79
Corman's family shared the news of his passing on social media, expressing their sorrow and remembrance for the "king of B movies." They divulged Roger Corman's wish for how he wanted to be remembered in their message.
"We remember Roger Corman, our dear husband and father, with deep sadness and immense gratitude for his remarkable life. He passed away surrounded by his loved ones on May 9 in Santa Monica, California. He is survived by his wife, Julie, and daughters, Catherine and Mary. Known for his generosity, openness, and kindness, he was cherished by all who knew him. A devoted father, his love for his daughters was profound. His revolutionary and iconoclastic films mirrored the zeitgeist. When asked about his legacy, he stated, 'I was a filmmaker.' - revealed the family.
John Howard Carpenter, a renowned director famous for horror classics such as "Halloween" and "The Thing," also paid respects to Corman on platform X, highlighting Corman's work's significant influence on his career.
"Roger Corman, a pivotal figure in my career, has passed away. I had the privilege of calling him a friend. His science fiction films and Edgar Allan Poe adaptations were a cornerstone of my childhood. You will be dearly missed, Roger," - Carpenter shared on social media.
