Director James Cameron and actor Leonardo DiCaprio were among those remembering producer Jon Landau Sunday after Landau’s death at the age of 63.
Landau, who produced three of the biggest-grossing movies in history with Cameron’s “Titanic” and both “Avatar” films, died of cancer Friday in Los Angeles.
“His legacy is not just the films he produced, but the personal example he set — indomitable, caring, inclusive, tireless, insightful and utterly unique,” Cameron said in a statement provided to Variety. “He produced great films, not by wielding power but by spreading warmth and the joy of making cinema. He inspired us all to be and to bring our best, every day.
“I have lost a dear friend, and my closest collaborator of 31 years. A part of myself has been torn away.”
“Jon was an incredibly kind, wise, and empathetic soul, who wanted to create nothing but a positive impact on anyone or anything approached,” said DiCaprio who rocketed to superstardom after starring in 1997’s “Titanic.”
“His legacy and leadership will live on forever. My condolences are with his entire family. Rest in peace; you will be deeply missed,” DiCaprio added.
Actress Zoe Saldana, who starred in 2009’s “Avatar,” posted about Landau on Instagram.
“Words are hard to put together right now, your passing is hitting really hard. You are leaving us too soon, my thoughts are with you and your family right now,” she wrote. “Your wisdom and support shaped so many of us in ways we will always be grateful for. The memories we shared together will always hold a special place in my heart. Your legacy will continue to inspire us and guide us in our journey. Rest in peace, dear Jon. You will be deeply missed.”
Actor Sam Worthington, who starred in both “Avatar” films, told Variety that “Jon was all heart. He made everything and everyone he touched feel they could be better. He led with humor and strength, compassion and kindness. The People say all energy is borrowed and someday you have to give it back. I see you, Jon.”
Landau’s sister Tina posted the following tribute Saturday on the social media platform X: “The best brother a girl could ever dream of – my brother Jon – has passed away. My heart is broken but also bursting with pride & gratitude for his most extraordinary life, and the love and gifts he gave me – and all who knew him or his films.”
Actress Frances Fisher, who appeared in “Titanic,” had noted Landau’s death late Friday, writing “Rest in Power Jon” on X.
Landau was born in New York in 1960 to parents who owned movie theaters and were both film producers as well. He later attended the USC School of Cinematic Arts.
His phenomenally successful career as a producer was accompanied by a meteoric rise in the studio ranks, in which he was named an executive vice president of feature movies at 20th Century Fox when he was just 29. He oversaw films including “Die Hard 2” (1990), “The Last of the Mohicans” (1992), “Mrs. Doubtfire” (1993) and Cameron’s “True Lies” (1994).
That last film touched off Landau’s partnership with Cameron. They teamed up for 1997’s “Titanic,” for which they both won Oscars. In 2009, they struck gold again with “Avatar,” which remains the biggest-grossing film of all time.
Their most recent venture, 2022’s “Avatar: The Way of Water,” is third on the all-time list, one spot ahead of “Titanic.”
Landau becoming a top executive at Cameron’s Lightstorm Entertainment in 2009.
In January 2023, Landau and Cameron placed their handprints and footprints in cement in the forecourt of the TCL Chinese Theatre IMAX.
Funeral plans have not yet been announced.