Gil Cates, Oscar Producer, Dead At 77

Gil Cates, 2008. credit: Darren Decker / ©A.M.P.A.S.

Gil Cates, producer of 14 Academy Awards, has sadly passed away at the age of 77.

From Variety:

Cates, whose film producing credits include “I Never Sang for My Father” and “The Last Married Couple in America,” most recently oversaw the Oscars as executive producer in 2008, the 80th annual kudofest. He produced his first Oscarcast in 1990, which earned him a Primetime Emmy for his work

According to his Geffen Playhouse bio, he is survived by wife Dr. Judith Reichman, four children, two stepchildren and grandchildren. Son Gil Cates Jr. is a writer-director.

AMPAS Statement Regarding the Passing of Gil Cates:

Beverly Hills, CA – “Gil was our colleague, our friend and a former governor of the Academy,” said Academy President Tom Sherak. “He was a consummate professional who gave the Academy and the world some of the most memorable moments in Oscar® history. His passing is a tremendous loss to the entertainment industry, and our thoughts go out to his family.”

Cates produced the Academy Awards® 14 times between 1990 and 2008, more than any other individual. He was responsible for first bringing hosts Billy Crystal, Whoopi Goldberg, David Letterman, Steve Martin, Chris Rock and Jon Stewart to Oscar’s stage.

Cates served three consecutive terms as a governor of the Academy’s Directors Branch, from 1984 to 1993. He returned to the board for another term beginning in 2002, and held the post of vice president from 2003 to 2005.

According to TMZ:

“Gilbert’s body was discovered last night in a parking lot at UCLA. Emergency teams responded to a call on the campus around 5:50PM, but were unable to revive Cates. The L.A. County coroner is investigating the cause of death. Cates underwent heart surgery earlier this month.”