B-Movie King Roger Corman Dies at 98

Legendary movie director Roger Corman, who turned out hundreds of low-budget films in Hollywood and was known as the "King of the Bs," has passed away at the age of 98.

His wife and daughters confirmed his death in a statement to the Associated Press on Saturday.

"He was generous, open-hearted and kind to all those who knew him," the statement said. "When asked how he would like to be remembered, he said, 'I was a filmmaker, just that.'"

Some of Hollywood's biggest actors and directors got early breaks in his films. Among them was Jack Nicholson.

Other actors whose careers began in Corman movies included Robert De Niro, Bruce Dern and Ellen Burstyn.

His films were a staple of outdoor movie theaters in the day, and helped shaped American teens' aesthetic — and future filmmakers.

Corman's "Little Shop of Horrors" became a classic that inspired a long-lasting stage musical and a 1986 musical adaptation starring Steve Martin, Bill Murray and John Candy.

Tributes to him poured in from Hollywood's elite.

Director John Carpenter called Corman "one of the most influential movie directors in my life," adding: "It was my privilege to know him.He was a great friend. He shaped my childhood with science fiction movies and Edgar Allen Poe epics. I'll miss you, Roger."

Actor and director Ron Howard wrote on X: "RIP Roger Corman. A great movie maker and mentor. When I was 23 he gave me my 1st shot at directing. He launched many careers & quietly lead our industry in important ways. He remained sharp, interested and active even at 98. Grateful to have known him."

Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro said that Corman did "more for Contemporary American Cinema than any other of his contemporaries. He was a pillar and a straight-shooting, no-nonsense lover of Film."

"Lord of the Rings" star Elijah Wood simply reacted: "Farewell, Roger Corman."

Some Hollywood veterans gave thanks to Corman by offering him small roles in their later movies including Jonathan Demme casting him as the FBI director in "The Silence of the Lambs."

Corman received an honorary Academy Award in 2009. He is survived by his wife, Julie, and children Catherine, Roger, Brian and Mary.

Tags

Entertainment, Movies, Hollywood