Movies

Sandy Bresler, Jack Nicholson’s longtime agent and agency co-founder, dies at 87

BBG News

As a seasoned movie critic with over three decades of experience under my belt, I have had the privilege of witnessing the evolution of Hollywood’s most iconic figures. One such individual was Sandy Bresler, who passed away recently at the ripe age of 87.

Sandy Bresler, who served as actor Jack Nicholson’s agent for six decades, has died at age 87.

On Thursday, an experienced figure in the industry passed away in Santa Monica following a brief illness. In a released statement, his family mentioned that he had set the bar high by creating a benchmark for personalized talent management that was second to none.

On Friday, John Kelly, who was Sandy’s business partner at Bresler Kelly and Associates, stated to The Times that Sandy was an exceptional individual, freely giving his time and wisdom. He added that Sandy was also always a source of great amusement! They had co-founded the agency in 1983 together.

1. Bresler was born on January 20, 1937. It was during their time serving together in the California Air National Guard that he first met Nicholson. As the son of “Casino Royale” producer Jerry Bresler, Patrick McGilligan described him as a second-generation Hollywood kid in his biography titled “Jack’s Life: A Biography of Jack Nicholson.”

In the account of his life, the biographer noted that, similar to Nicholson, Bresler was an ardent cinema enthusiast, nurtured by a long-standing love for films. With his industry contacts, he could borrow 16mm prints directly from studio libraries and screen them in Jack’s home, making it a significant aspect of their bond.

In 1961, a year following his employment as a secretary at William Morris Agency, Bresler’s friendship with the three-time Academy Award winner blossomed into a professional collaboration.

“McGilligan stated that for more than a decade, Nicholson’s portrayal by his agent lacked aggression and creativity. However, this issue was later addressed when ‘Easy Rider’ was produced, with Sandy Bresler stepping in as Nicholson’s new representative.”

In 1999, when Jack Nicholson accepted the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes, he expressed that throughout his career, there’s been just one individual who has stood by him, showed him the way, endured his outbursts, and even tolerated his dramatic behavior.

“His name escapes me,” he joked, continuing, “Sandy Bresler, my pal and comrade in arms!”

Following his departure from William Morris Agency, Bresler joined ICM. Later on, he chose to depart and set up Bresler, Wolff, Cota & Livingston, later recognized as the Artists Agency, according to Deadline. Throughout his life, Bresler was a constant member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

For nearly three decades, he additionally held a position on the board of directors for the Association of Talent Agents. Moreover, he served as president of this organization for over a decade.

During Sandy’s exceptional term, he showed extraordinary commitment and forward-thinking guidance as both a friend and a leader. He skillfully steered the association towards a time of substantial expansion and change, according to ATA’s Executive Director, Karen Stuart, who made this statement on Thursday.

“During Sandy’s leadership, ATA broadened its scope and power. His consistent dedication to the talent agency field significantly boosted our members’ causes and raised the entire industry. Stuart added, ‘Sandy was a mentor to many, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come.’ “

Bresler leaves behind his beloved wife of half a century, Nancy; his son, Eric; his daughter, Jennifer Galperson; as well as his twin grandchildren, Brandon and Jonah.

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2024-08-04 18:14

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