Tributes are flooding in for Frank Price, the Hollywood legend behind some of the biggest movies of all time, after his death was confirmed. He was 95.
The Man Who Backed Ghostbusters And Back To The Future
Frank Price wasn’t an actor or director, but his influence on cinema is unmatched.
Starting out in the 1950s as a story editor, Price rose through the ranks of TV before joining Universal Television in 1959. He helped shape the made-for-TV movie, the mini-series, and hit dramas like Columbo, Kojak, and The Virginian.
Later, as president of Columbia Pictures, he oversaw award-winning classics like Kramer vs. Kramer, Gandhi, and Tootsie.
But his boldest calls came when he backed Ghostbusters — after other execs didn’t believe in it — and approved Back To The Future, which went on to become one of Universal’s most successful films ever, spawning a trilogy loved worldwide.
He also gave the green light to The Karate Kid and John Singleton’s groundbreaking Boyz n the Hood, which changed Hollywood forever.
Fans Pay Tribute To A Movie Giant
News of his passing has left film lovers heartbroken, with many taking to social media to pay their respects.
“It’s amazing how much of a difference one man can make in someone’s life by giving something a chance,” one fan wrote. “I grew up on Ghostbusters. Now my kids love the movies too.”
Another added: “The legend, the goat. Truly grateful he gave us peak cinema that will outlive us all.”
A third said: “This dude’s responsible for about half of my childhood. RIP.”
Not Every Call Was A Winner…
Of course, not every decision was golden. Price famously passed on Steven Spielberg’s E.T., which became the biggest box office hit of its time. And while at Universal, he approved Howard the Duck, still remembered as one of Hollywood’s most infamous flops.
But his career highs far outweighed the lows. His name is attached to some of the most important and beloved movies of the 20th century.
His Family Confirmed The News
Price’s death was announced by his son, Roy Price — the former head of Amazon Studios — who said on X:
“My father, Frank Price, passed away peacefully in his sleep this morning at 95. He lived a full life, and we will miss him deeply.”
He is survived by his wife Katherine and his sons David, Roy, and William.
Frank Price may have been behind the camera, but his impact on cinema — from Ghostbusters to Back To The Future — will be felt for generations to come.
Featured image credit: Universal Pictures
