LOS ANGELES (CelebrityAccess) – Craig Zadan, the prolific stage, TV and film producer has passed away at the age of 69.
Zadan died Monday night at his Hollywood Hills home of complications from a recent shoulder replacement surgery.
A statement released Tuesday by NBC Entertainment chairman Bob Greenblatt said: “We are stunned that the man behind so many incredible film, theater, and television productions — several of them joyous musicals — was taken away so suddenly. Craig’s distinguished career as a passionate and consummate producer is eclipsed only by his genuine love for the thousands of actors, directors, writers, musicians, designers, and technicians he worked with over the years. His absence will be felt in our hearts and throughout our business.”
Zadan and longtime producing partner Neil Meron (Storyline Entertainment/Zadan/Meron Productions) left their mark on a wide range of award-winning projects over the years including 2002’s Oscar best picture winner “Chicago,” 2007 film adaptation of the musical “Hairspray,” “The Sound of Music Live,” and a host of other productions across film, stage, and television. The pair also executive produced the Academy Awards telecast for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and ABC from 2013 to 2015.
To date, Zadan and Meron productions have earned six Oscars, 17 Emmy Awards, two Tony Awards, two Peabody honors, and a Grammy. The pair’s most recent effort for NBC, “Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert,” is also up for 13 Emmy Awards next month.
Zadan is survived by his partner, Elwood Hopkins.
