Robert Watts, the famed “Star Wars” and “Indiana Jones” producer, died in his sleep on Monday at the age of 86.
His agent Julian Owen has confirmed that the famous British producer and production manager died at his home in East Sussex, England. hollywood reporter. “We spent 10 years with him taking him to competitions around the world where he was able to connect with fans and talk about his career,” Owen said on behalf of Alliance Agents. There is no indication as to what caused Watts' death.
Legendary Robert Watts dies at age 86
Watts was production manager on the original Star Wars, associate producer on The Empire Strikes Back, and co-producer on Return of the Jedi.
May the Force be with you always pic.twitter.com/ZN2gPAsTYh
— Star Wars Holocron (@sw_holocron) October 1, 2024
Watts, a London native, worked with George Lucas on the original Star Wars trilogy and the Indiana Jones trilogy. According to The Hollywood Reporter, he then collaborated again with “Indiana Jones” director Steven Spielberg on the animated classics “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” (1988) and “An American Tail: Fievel Goes West” (1991).
As director of production on the first Star Wars film, Watts traveled to Morocco and Tunisia for location scouting. He also directed the third unit.
He continued on with the series, excelling as an associate producer on The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and co-producer on Return of the Jedi (1983).
I am heartbroken to hear that Robert Watts has passed away. The afternoon I spent with him in 2018 was filled with unforgettable stories.
He talked about the passion it takes to succeed in the industry. His own passion shone through until the end.
we are very grateful to you ❤️ pic.twitter.com/GB5uGWXqQr
— The Filmumentaries™ Podcast – Jamie Benning (@jamieswb) October 1, 2024
His early works include “The Man in the Middle'' (1964), “Repulsion'' (1965), “Darling'' (1965), and “Thunderball'' (1965). Two included roles as assistant director. According to The Hollywood Reporter, he was a location manager for You Only Live Twice (1967) and filmed Inspector Clouzot (1968) and Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968). I served as a production manager.
Watts' resume also includes credits on The Wrath of God (1972), The Other Side of Midnight (1977), Return to Oz (1985), and Alive (1993). Credited as manager. and Steven Seagal's “On Deadly Ground” (1994).
Watts is survived by his children Bernie, Simon and Liddy, and his ex-wife Julia. (Related: 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' star Ken Page dies at age 70)
Fans, stars, and loved ones continue to pay tribute to Watts on social media as they mourn his loss.
