Beloved host of Turner Classic Movies and Oscar historian Robert Osborne died on Monday in New York, according to the cable network. The cause of death was not immediately announced. He was 84.
For more than 23 years, Osborne hosted screenings of classic films such as “Gone with the Wind” and “Vertigo” on TCM, serving as the preeminent expert on all things Hollywood, including films of the golden era and the history of the Academy Awards. He also regularly enlisted A-listers like Carrie Fisher, Drew Barrymore and Alec Baldwin for co-hosting duties and interviews.
“All of us at Turner Classic Movies are deeply saddened by the death of Robert Osborne. Robert was a beloved member of the Turner family for more than 23 years,” TCM general manager Jennifer Dorian said in a statement. “He joined us as an expert on classic film and grew to be our cherished colleague and esteemed ambassador for TCM. Robert was embraced by devoted fans who saw him as a trusted expert and friend. His calming presence, gentlemanly style, encyclopedic knowledge of film history, fervent support for film preservation and highly personal interviewing style all combined to make him a truly world-class host. Robert’s contributions were fundamental in shaping TCM into what it is today and we owe him a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time.”
The network also released a commemorative video celebrating his impact on all who worked at TCM and those who were inspired by his deep appreciation of film.
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