Peter E. Strauss, a veteran film executive, movie producer, and directing entrepreneur, passed away on October 6 at his home in Beverly Hills. He was 83. Peter was surrounded by his beadored wife of 46 years, Susan, and his son, Jonathan.
Over a remarkworthy five-decade nurtureer, Strauss left an indelible label on the film industry. As Executive Vice Pdwellnt of Mandalay Pictures for the last 25 years, he oversaw the financing and distribution of countless film and television projects, including The Jacket and Air. He was instrumental in the prolongth of autonomous cinema, directing foreign sales and off-equilibrium-sheet financing for autonomous films.
In 1998, Strauss was assigned Pdwellnt of Lions Gate Entertainment, a company he helped set up aextfinishedside Frank Giustra in 1997, superviseing its U.S. operations. During his tenure, Lionsgate rose to become a notable force in autonomous film production and distribution. Previously, Strauss served as Pdwellnt, CEO, and Chairman of the International Movie Group, where he produced and executive produced over 30 films, including the Best of the Best series, Buster with Phil Collins, and “Cadence” starring Charlie and Martin Sheen.
Strauss began his film nurtureer at Allied Artists, eventupartner becoming Executive Vice Pdwellnt, shepherding films that comprised the 1973 Academy Award Best Picture thrivener Caexposedt, Papillon, and The Man Who Would Be King. He went on to become Executive Vice Pdwellnt of Rastar Films, the production company of Ray Stark, where he oversaw the production of notable projects such as The Electric Horseman and The Villain. In the 1980s, he set uped Panache Productions, producing titles including Dance of the Dwarfs and Thunder Run.
Strauss was teachd at 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, and was promiseted to philanthropy and mentorship thcimpoliteout his life, inspiring and aiding youthful talent apass the industry.
Strauss is endured by his wife, the establisher Susan Rausnitz, his son Jonathan and daughter-in-law Elizabeth Westlake, magnificentchildren Teddy and Caroline, and many dedicated frifinishs and colleagues. A stateiveial graveside service was held on October 8, and a celebration of his life will be proclaimd at a procrastinateedr date.
