‘Superman,’ ‘Lethal Weapon’ director Richard Donner dies at 91
He gained fame with his first feature, 1976’s The Omen.
By LINDSEY BAHRAP Film Writer
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Filmmaker Richard Donner, who helped create the modern superhero blockbuster with 1978’s “Superman” and mastered the buddy comedy with the “Lethal Weapon” franchise, has died. He was 91.
Donner died Monday in Los Angeles, his family said through a spokesperson.
Richard Donner
Donner gained fame with his first feature, 1976’s “The Omen.” A then-unheard-of offer followed: $1 million to direct 1978’s “Superman.” Donner channeled his love of the character into making the film, repeatedly facing off with producers over the need for special effects that would convince the audience that a superhero could really fly. In the title role, Donner cast Christopher Reeve, who was associated with “Superman” for the rest of his life.
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Richard Donner was known for directing Lethal Weapon films amongst other blockbusters died at 91. Written By Richard Donner passes away: Steven Spielberg, Edgar Wright & James Mangold pay tribute to ‘Superman’ director
Richard Donner was one of the most prolific directors in Hollywood. He started his career in television and later made some huge blockbusters including the ‘Superman’ and ‘Lethal Weapon’ franchise. Some of his other notable works include Inside Moves, 16 Blocks, and the all-time classic ‘The Goonies’ amongst many others. Sean Astin, star of ‘The Goonies’ was one of the first ones to remember Richard. He wrote on Twitter, “Richard Donner had the biggest, boomiest voice you could imagine. He commanded attention and he laughed like no man has ever laughed before. Dick was so much fun. What I perceived in him, as a 12-year-old kid, is that he cared. I love how much he cared.”