Legendary producer and industry icon Gilbert “Gil” Cates, known for producing the Academy Awards, died Monday on the UCLA campus, a university spokesman confirmed. He was 77.
Emergency medical personnel responded to a call on campus shortly before 6 p.m. Monday but were unable to revive Cates, according to a message posted on the UCLA website.
The Los Angeles County coroner is investigating the cause of death.
Cates produced 14 Academy Awards shows in 18 years and won an Emmy in 1991 for the 63rd annual Oscars. He most recently produced the “80th Annual Academy Awards” show for ABC.
“Our deepest condolences and love go out to Gil's beloved family at this very difficult time,” said Teri Schwartz, dean of the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television.
Cates was the founding dean of the film school, a position he held from 1990 to 1998. He was also a professor at the school.
"Today we mourn our great loss but also celebrate Gil's extraordinary vision and countless contributions," Schwartz said in the UCLA website message.
UCLA's film school students "benefited from his remarkable talent, insights, generosity, experience and wisdom,” Schwartz said.
Cates was also producing director at the Geffen Playhouse, where he directed Jeffrey Hatcher’s “A Picasso” and many other plays at the venue.
He was best known as the long-time producer of the Academy Awards.
"Gil was our colleague, our friend and a former governor of the Acaedemy," 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," Sherak said.
Cates was an active member of the Directors Guild of America, serving as president for five years and as a board member or officer since 1975.
"His passing is a tremendous loss to the entertainment industry," Sherak said. "Our thoughts go out to his family."
Cates is survived by his wife, Dr. Judith Reichman, four children, two stepchildren and six grandchildren.
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