Who Was Jay Kanter? Know About The Film Producer And Agent To Marlon Brando, Marilyn Monroe As He Passes Away At 97

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As I reflect upon the life of Jay Kanter, a Hollywood titan whose influence transcended the silver screen, I find myself in awe of his remarkable journey. Born into humble beginnings in Chicago, he rose to become a powerhouse agent, representing some of the most iconic figures in cinema history. His story is one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to integrity.

TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains references to an individual’s death.

On Tuesday, Jay Kanter, a renowned Hollywood agent and the representative of influential figures such as Marilyn Monroe, Marlon Brando, and Grace Kelly, sadly passed away at the age of 97. Additionally, Kanter served as the inspiration for Jack Lemmon’s character in the timeless Billy Wilder film The Apartment. On August 6th, he peacefully left this world in his Beverly Hills residence, with his cherished family members by his side.

Jay Kanter kick-started his professional journey under the guidance of Lew Wasserman at MCA during World War II, while simultaneously serving in the U.S. Navy. At just 22 years old, he was tasked with welcoming Marlon Brando off the train, an encounter that led to a lasting friendship and Brando remaining a long-term client.

I relocated my family to London to oversee production at our European studio, following MCA’s acquisition of Universal Pictures. However, the studio eventually shut down its European operations. With Elliott Kastner and Alan Ladd, Jr., also known as “Laddie,” I embarked on a new venture by founding a production company.

As a devoted follower, I’ve had the privilege of being favored by Lew Wasserman, a formidable figure in the Music Corporation of America. Throughout my career, I’ve been instrumental in producing films, such as X, Y, and Zee (1972), which starred Elizabeth Taylor. In the 1960s, I spent seven years in England, where I had the responsibility of approving Universal’s European motion pictures. Over the years, I’ve cultivated a strong business relationship with Alan Ladd Jr., working together at Fox and MGM.

In my line of work as a lifestyle expert, I’ve had the privilege to delve into some truly iconic cinematic gems that have left an indelible mark on popular culture. Among these are timeless classics like Thelma & Louise, Julia, Blade Runner, Body Heat, Norma Rae, Chariots of Fire, and the original Star Wars trilogy – Episode IV: A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi. I’ve also explored the thrilling universe of Alien, The Right Stuff, Turning Point, and even the Police Academy series. These films, along with numerous other masterpieces and Academy Award winners, have not only enriched my own life but have also contributed significantly to the art of storytelling.

Born on December 12th in Chicago, Illinois, I, a proud descendant, hail from a Jewish family that instilled values of integrity and kindness within me throughout my life. My dear son, Adam Kanter of Independent Artist Group, echoes this sentiment. My marital journey unfolded three times: a brief stint with the captivating actress Roberta Haynes, followed by a union with Judy Balaban, the cherished daughter of Paramount Pictures’ former president and honorary chairman, Barney Balaban.

Afterwards, Kanter wedded his wife, Kit Bennett Kanter, who was 49 years old at the time. They resided together until her passing in 2014. Additionally, he mourned the loss of his daughter, Victoria Kanter Colombetti, during his lifetime.

He leaves behind his children: Dustin Bernard (and Debra); Tom Bernard; Cydney Bernard; Amy Kanter (and her partner Bob Thiele); Adam Kanter (and Brooke); Michael Kanter (and Erica), along with their grandchildren: Jason Colombetti (and Andie) and Matthew Colombetti, both of whom are married; Owen Thiele, whose father is Jared Ellner; Sophie Bernard, Charlie Foster, Hannah Kanter, Kit Foster, Cleo Kanter, Grayson Kanter, and Ryan Kanter.

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2024-08-07 08:26