University pays tribute to top film producer
Acclaimed British film producer John Daly, who was recently honoured by the University of Bedfordshire, has died following a long illness.
The 71-year-old passed away at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre in Los Angeles last Friday (31 October). Earlier this year he was presented with an Honorary Doctor of Arts by the University for his contribution to the international film industry.
With a career spanning more than 40 years, he has produced some of the most iconic films of his generation, among them Terminator, Platoon and The Last Emperor. He was nominated for 21 Oscars and won 13 across various categories. He has also been nominated for numerous BAFTAs and Golden Globes.
The University’s Chair of Governors, Andrew Bentley, presented the award to John at a special ceremony in Hollywood earlier this year. He paid tribute to him: "We are incredibly saddened by John’s death. The film industry has lost one of its most talented producers who has inspired many film makers and actors alike. We were very proud to have had the opportunity to honour him and he was truly delighted to receive his award."
John was born in London in 1937, and after leaving school, worked as a tea boy before spending three years as a waiter in the Merchant Navy.
In 1966 he founded a talent agency with the young actor David Hemmings. In 1971 he bought Hemmings’ share of the company, went on to form his own production company, Hemdale Group, and moved the operation to Los Angeles. He quickly gained a reputation as a ‘risk taker’ and ‘maverick’ in conservative Hollywood, backing films that none of the big studios would consider.
His reputation as a successful independent film producer grew with early successes such as The Passage (1979) starring Anthony Quinn and High Risk (1981) starring Ernest Borgnine. It was during the mid 1980s that he made the transition to Hollywood blockbusters.
Throughout his life, John maintained strong links with the UK and fostered relationships that promoted various social issues including an initiative for dealing with gun crime.
He was a great supporter of new creative talent in the film industry. He gave many of today’s leading actors, including Keanu Reeves, Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts, their early career breaks and also gave a chance to many young first time directors who have since become famous such as James Cameron, Oliver Stone and Robert Altman.
His recent films include the epic Petersburg-Cannes Express, The Aryan Couple and Tournament of Dreams.
