Canadian Filmmaker Norman Jewison Dies at 97

Canadian filmmaker Norman Jewison, known for directing Oscar-winning films such as Moonstruck and Fiddler on the Roof, as well as for his work at the Canadian Film Centre, has passed away at the age of 97. Jewison died at his home in Toronto on Saturday.

Jewison’s illustrious career spanned across various genres, but he was particularly interested in projects that explored social issues and the human condition. His 1967 crime drama, In the Heat of the Night, which won five Oscars, including Best Picture, was one of his notable films that addressed racism.

As a young man hitchhiking across the segregated American South after his service in the Royal Canadian Navy during World War II, Jewison witnessed the effects of apartheid for the first time. This experience deeply impacted him and influenced his later films like A Soldier's Story and The Hurricane.

Jewison’s diverse filmography also includes The Thomas Crown Affair, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Russians Are Coming, The Russians Are Coming, …And Justice for All, Agnes of God, and Best Friends.

Throughout his career, Jewison received numerous honors and awards, including the Order of Canada and the Irving G. Thalberg Award for lifetime achievement from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. His legacy is also celebrated on both the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Canada’s Walk of Fame.

Many colleagues and mentees praised Jewison for his directing style and teaching abilities. He served as a mentor for aspiring filmmakers at the Canadian Film Centre, which he founded in 1988. Jewison was a staunch supporter of Canadian culture and often advocated for the nation’s arts.

Despite having homes in various cities across North America, Jewison always considered himself primarily Canadian and felt most at home on Canadian soil. He had a farm in Caledon, Ontario, where he and his family raised pigs and cattle.

Norman Jewison’s authentic and impactful storytelling left an indelible mark on the film industry, and he will be remembered as one of Canada’s most accomplished filmmakers.