The world has woken up to the sad news that the legendary director Sir Alan Parker has died at 76 after battling a long-term illness.
Parker was revered for his creative spirit, keen eye for detail, and inherent ability for picking iconic soundtracks to his films.
Sir. Alan Parker, notable director of Bugsy Malone, Fame and Pink Floyd’s The Wall passed away last night at 76.
Born in London, 1944, Parker’s work always centred around film. He began his career in advertising, directing seven award-winning commercials which financed his first fictional film No Hard Feelings in 1973. Best known for his films Midnight Express, Fame and Pink Floyd’s The Wall, Parker has been praised for his musical acuity and creative direction.
His films have won 19 BAFTA awards, 10 Golden Globes, and 6 Academy Awards, making him one of the most prolific directors ever. He was awarded the highest honour in 2013 when he received the BAFTA Academy Fellowship from the British Film Academy. For his work, Queen Elizabeth II knighted him in 2002.
The feeling of this loss has reverberated around the globe and many have taken to the internet to share their condolences, including Ben Stiller and Andrew Lloyd Webber.
So sad to hear of Alan Parker’s passing. What a great director who made what I consider “real” movies. He inspired so many filmmakers: ‘Fame’, ‘Midnight Express,’ ‘Mississippi Burning’…Watch his films – they are some of the best of the 70s and 80s. #RIP https://t.co/Dchg3UPydh
— Ben Stiller (@RedHourBen) July 31, 2020
So very sad to share the news of the passing of my dear friend, Sir Alan Parker. Being cast in his epic film, Birdy, transformed my life. Alan was a great artist who’s films will live forever. Godspeed, Sir Alan. 💔#BugsyMalone#MidnightExpress#FAME#MississippiBurning#Birdy pic.twitter.com/4rBpbEhVh1
— Matthew Modine (@MatthewModine) July 31, 2020
Very sad to hear the news of Alan Parker’s death. My friend and collaborator on the Evita movie and one of the few directors to truly understand musicals on screen. – ALW
— Andrew Lloyd Webber (@OfficialALW) July 31, 2020
Parker’s legacy lives in Lisa, his second wife and his five children.
