Frank Price, an iconic figure in Hollywood, passed away on Monday at the age of 95. His son, Roy Price, confirmed that he died peacefully in his sleep.
Born on May 17, 1930, in Decatur, Illinois, Frank Price had a robust career that spanned television and film. He started as a writer and producer during the golden age of Westerns. He played key roles in creating over 100 episodes of The Virginians and 75 episodes of The Tall Man. Later, he contributed to popular dramas like Ironside and It Takes a Thief.
Price had an eye for talent. He was among the first to recognize Steven Bochco’s potential, bringing him on board for Ironside. Bochco recalled in an interview how their early interaction was a bit rocky, but it ultimately led to an impactful collaboration.
In the late ’70s, Price made a significant shift to feature films, rising to chairman and CEO of Columbia Pictures. He had a knack for identifying hits, driving projects like Tootsie, Ghostbusters, and The Karate Kid to success. His leadership also saw the production of Best Picture Oscar winners including Gandhi and Out of Africa. Notably, he backed Boyz n the Hood, which opened dialogues about race and social issues in America. This movie not only launched key careers but also remains a cultural landmark.
After his time at Columbia, Price continued his winning streak at Universal Pictures. He helped kick off the Back to the Future franchise, which became a cultural phenomenon. His work in television didn’t go unnoticed either; he earned an Emmy nomination for the 1995 HBO movie The Tuskegee Airmen.
Frank also founded Price Entertainment, producing films such as Shadowlands and A Bronx Tale. His legacy goes beyond film; he was heavily involved in academia, serving as a trustee for the University of Southern California and chairing its School of Cinematic Arts Board of Councilors from 1992 to 2021.
His family remembers him not just for his professional achievements but for his warmth and love for storytelling. Frank Price leaves behind his wife, Katherine, his three sons, including Roy, and 14 grandchildren, all of whom cherish the impact he had on their lives and the entertainment industry as a whole.
In the entertainment landscape today, his influence is palpable. Many of today’s creators draw inspiration from the narratives he championed. As the film and TV industry evolves, the foundational work of pioneers like Frank Price will continue to be celebrated.
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