JAWS 2 director Jeannot Szwarc passes away aged 85
Jeannot Szwarc, the French-American director renowned for his work in both film and television, passed away today at the age of 85. Born on November 21, 1939, in Paris, France, Szwarc's career spanned several decades and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Szwarc's early life was marked by international experiences; although born in Paris, he was raised in Argentina. He later pursued higher education at Harvard University, earning a master's degree in political science. However, his passion for cinema led him to the entertainment industry, where he began his career directing episodes of popular television series in the 1960s and 1970s, including "Ironside," "Kojak," and "Night Gallery."
“RIP my dear JEANNOT SZWARC One of the finest most talented souls I was privileged to know!”
Transitioning to feature films, Szwarc directed "Bug" (1975) before taking the helm of "Jaws 2" (1978), the sequel to Steven Spielberg's blockbuster. He continued to explore the fantasy genre with "Somewhere in Time" (1980), a romantic time-travel drama that, despite initial mixed reviews, developed a dedicated cult following over the years. His other notable film credits include "Supergirl" (1984) and "Santa Claus: The Movie" (1985).
“I got to spend just over an hour with Jeannot when we recorded a special JAWS 2 45th anniversary interview. He was so nervous at the start but once the memories returned and the stories started to flow, he was incrediblly generous and honest. It was easy to see why the cast of JAWS 2 spoke of Jeannot with such affection and admiration.”
In addition to his film work, Szwarc remained active in television throughout his career, directing episodes for series such as "The Rockford Files," "Smallville," "Bones," "Castle," and "Grey's Anatomy." His versatility and ability to navigate both mediums showcased his adaptability and commitment to storytelling.
Szwarc's contributions to the entertainment industry were characterized by a diverse range of genres and a dedication to his craft that inspired both audiences and fellow filmmakers. He is survived by his wife, Cara de Menual, a production coordinator, and their family. His legacy will endure through the memorable works he brought to the screen and the impact he had on the world of film and television
Words by Ross Williams
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