Hollywood Reacts to Oscar-Winning Director Jonathan Demme’s Death

Hollywood was quick to mourn the loss of the acclaimed director Jonathan Demme, who died of cancer complications.

Demme made about as big a splash in Hollywood as anyone ever has with 1991’s “The Silence of the Lambs” which earned five Oscars including best director for Demme. His follow-up, 1993’s “Philadelphia,” earned Tom Hanks his first Academy Award.

His most recent work behind the camera was an episode of the Fox police drama “Shots Fired,” which is scheduled to air on April 26 — the same day the director’s death was announced. He also recently filmed Justin Timberlake’s 2016 concert tour documentary “Justin Timberlake + the Tennessee Kids.” His most recent feature was the Meryl Streep starrer, “Ricki and the Flash.”

The producers of “Shots Fired” Gina Prince-Bythewood and Reggie Rock Bythewood wrote, “We mourn the passing of Jonathan Demme. He was a tremendous artist who shared our belief that art can change the world. He was a gift, and he made every one around him better. He taught us to care a little bit more, believe a little bit more and listen a little bit more. We will miss him.”

Robyn Hitchcock, who worked with Demme in the 1998 film “Storefront Hitchcock,” wrote the following statement: “I last saw Jonathan Demme four years ago today. Had no idea till this morning that it would be for the last time. Jonathan was a born movie-maker: he loved people and he loved filming them. Fictional or actual, he caught so many lives and glimpses of lives and framed them for others to enjoy. Jonathan was a true keeper of souls, and now we must celebrate his. He did a lot for me, too – thank you, JD. ‘Are you ready for your close-up?’”

“Moonlight” director Barry Jenkins tweeted, “Met tons through the Moonlight run but my man Demme was the kindest, most generous. A MASSIVE soul. He lived in love. And rests in peace.” He also recalled the last time he saw Demme — the late helmer was championing what would become the most recent best picture-winning film. “Fitting that it was in an act of love and generosity. Such a kind man,” Jenkins wrote.

“Sad to hear that Jonathan Demme has passed,” wrote Elijah Wood minutes after the news broke.

“Rest In Peace, Jonathan Demme,” wrote James Wan. “Passing of a great cinematic artist.”

“Ted Demme and I were worried about making The Ref when his uncle Jonathan Demme said something profound: ‘Stop talking and start shooting,'” Denis Leary shared.

“I only worked with him once — he was just like his films: brilliant, curious & original. RIP Jonathan Demme — a truly great filmmaker,” Beau Willimon penned.

Director Patrick Brice wrote, “The great reminder in thinking of Jonathan Demme and his work? As a filmmaker you are allowed to be interested in everything.”

“Just heard about Jonathan Demme,” Eli Roth wrote. “He could literally do anything and did it all masterfully. Never knew him but everyone loved him. Sad news.”

“SILENCE OF THE LAMBS is, of course, flawless,” wrote Michael Varrati. “Demme also made PHILADELPHIA in a time it was so very needed. P.S. I love SWING SHIFT.”

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