Peter E. Strauss, the film executive behind projects such as “The Jacket” and “Air,” died Oct. 6 at his home in Beverly Hills. He was 83.
Strauss held a number of roles over the course of his five-decade career, including most recently, executive vice president of Mandalay Pictures and previously president of Lions Gate Entertainment. At Mandalay, he oversaw the financing and distribution for film and television titles. Strauss is credited with contributing to the growth of independent cinema through his involvement in foreign sales and off-balance-sheet financing for independent films.
Strauss joined Lionsgate in 1998, overseeing U.S. operations for the company. During his time there, Lionsgate evolved its independent film production and distribution. Prior to this role, Strauss had worked at International Movie Group, where he produced and executive produced over 30 films as president, CEO and chairman, including the “Best of the Best” series, “Buster” with Phil Collins, and “Cadence” starring Charlie and Martin Sheen.
Strauss began his career at Allied Artists, where he eventually rose to become executive vice president. He worked on projects such as the 1973 Academy Award Best Picture winner “Cabaret,” “Papillon,” and “The Man Who Would Be King.” Strauss later served as executive vice president of Ray Stark’s production company, Rastar Films. Here, Strauss oversaw the production for “The Electric Horseman” and “The Villain.” In the 1990s, Strauss founded Panache Productions, where he produced titles including “Dance of the Dwarfs” and “Thunder Run.”
Strauss attended Oberlin College, the London School of Economics, and Columbia University School of Law. He was also a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and known for his philanthropy and mentorship.
Strauss is survived by his wife, the former Susan Rausnitz, his son Jonathan and daughter-in-law Elizabeth Westlake, grandchildren Teddy and Caroline and friends. A private graveside service was held on Oct. 8, with a celebration of his life to be announced at a later date.
