Remembering David Siegel: Legendary ‘Hangover’ and ‘Final Destination’ Producer Dies at 70
David Siegel, an influential figure in the film industry, passed away at the age of 70 on January 8 in Los Angeles. Known for his roles as co-producer on “The Hangover” trilogy and executive producer of “Final Destination Bloodlines,” Siegel’s contributions spanned over 60 films throughout his career.
David Siegel’s Career Highlights
Beginning his journey in Washington, D.C., Siegel co-founded a locations services company before moving into production management and line production. His work encompassed a variety of celebrated films, including:
- Dances with Wolves
- Bull Durham
- Gravity
- Air Force One
- The Lego Movie
- The Pursuit of Happyness
In addition to his work on “Final Destination Bloodlines,” he also produced popular titles such as:
- War Dogs
- The Babysitter
- Life of a Party
- Crazy, Stupid, Love
Collaborations with Renowned Filmmakers
Siegel’s collaborations include working closely with notable directors like Kevin Costner and Alfonso Cuarón. He received a Directors Guild of America (DGA) Award in 2014 for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in a Feature Film for his work on “Gravity.” Over his career, he worked with legends such as:
- Rob Reiner
- Penny Marshall
- Todd Phillips
- David Lester
A Legacy of Mentorship
Recognized not only for his professional achievements, Siegel was praised for his ability to connect with production crews. He was a respected mentor to many, providing opportunities to aspiring filmmakers who showed dedication and passion. His reputation for handling complications during production made him a sought-after colleague.
Memberships and Contributions
David Siegel was a member of several industry organizations, including:
- Directors Guild of America (DGA)
- Producers Guild of America (PGA)
- SAG-AFTRA
- Teamsters
Throughout his career, he also served as a transportation coordinator for over a decade, showcasing his versatility within the industry.
Survived By
Siegel leaves behind his wife, Janet; daughters Emma Sandler and Mollie Ennis; and sister Judy Siegel Schmauss. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Maya, Logan, and Indigo.
His legacy in the film industry, marked by his extensive contributions and mentorship, will be remembered by colleagues and fans alike.
