Jay Kanter, a renowned Hollywood agent and film producer, has died at the age of 97. Kanter, who represented legendary actors such as Marlon Brando and Marilyn Monroe, passed away peacefully from natural causes at his home in Beverly Hills. His son, Adam Kanter, confirmed that he was surrounded by family at the time of his passing.
Jay Kanter, agent to superstar Hollywood clients including Marlon Brando, Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly, died Tuesday at his home in Beverly Hills. He was 97.
Read more about his life and legacy here: https://t.co/0QIhHBCFyb
— Variety (@Variety) August 7, 2024
Kanter’s career in Hollywood began after World War II when he joined a prominent Hollywood agency, where he was mentored by the legendary movie mogul Lew Wasserman. At just 22, Kanter convinced Marlon Brando to become his client, marking the start of a professional relationship that lasted throughout Brando’s career and developed into a lifelong friendship. In addition to Brando and Monroe, Kanter represented other A-listers including Warren Beatty, Grace Kelly, Ronald Reagan, and Gene Kelly.
Transitioning from agent to producer, Kanter worked on iconic films such as “Blade Runner,” “Thelma and Louise,” “Alien,” and entries in the “Star Wars” and “Police Academy” franchises. He also collaborated with Mel Brooks on several projects, including “Spaceballs,” “Silent Movie,” “Young Frankenstein,” “High Anxiety,” and “Life Stinks.”
Kanter’s career saw him take on significant roles within major studios. Following MCA’s acquisition of Universal Pictures, he moved his family to London to oversee production for the studio’s European division. He later partnered with Elliott Kastner and Alan Ladd Jr. to form a production company and held leadership positions at 20th Century Fox, The Ladd Company, and MGM/UA.
Jay Kanter, Agent for Marlon Brando, Grace Kelly and Marilyn Monroe, Dies at 97 https://t.co/bMK6DyTj59 via @Yahoo
— Sandra Egeland (@SandraEgeland17) August 7, 2024
Born on December 12, 1926, in Chicago, Illinois, Kanter experienced both personal and professional triumphs and tragedies. He was married three times, with his longest marriage being to Kit Bennett Kanter, who passed away in 2014 after 49 years together. He also lost a daughter, Victoria Kanter Colombetti. He is survived by his children Dustin Bernard, Tom Bernard, Cydney Bernard, Amy Kanter, Adam Kanter, and Michael Kanter, along with his grandchildren.
Private services for Jay Kanter will be held on Friday, August 9, 2024. In lieu of flowers, his family suggests donations be made to the Motion Picture Television Fund or the Jules Stein Eye Institute.
Key Points:
- Jay Kanter, a legendary Hollywood agent and film producer, has passed away at 97.
- Kanter represented iconic actors like Marlon Brando and Marilyn Monroe and worked on famous films including “Blade Runner” and “Thelma and Louise.”
- He held leadership roles at major studios and collaborated with Mel Brooks on several projects.
- Kanter was married three times and lost his wife, Kit Bennett Kanter, in 2014.
- Private services will be held on August 9, with donations suggested to the Motion Picture Television Fund or the Jules Stein Eye Institute.
RM Tomi – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
