Marvin Levy passes away at 96 after decades of publicizing Steven Spielberg

Marvin Levy, a distinguished publicist who played a pivotal role in the film industry, passed away at the age of 96. Born on November 16, 1928, in Manhattan, Levy developed a knack for communication and storytelling early on. His career in publicity began at MGM in New York, where he handled campaigns for notable films such as ‘Gigi’ and ‘Ben-Hur’. As time went on, Levy transitioned to working with renowned publicists and eventually landed a significant position at Columbia Pictures, which led him to Los Angeles. It was here that he connected with Steven Spielberg, marking the beginning of a remarkable collaboration that lasted over 40 years. From the moment Levy started working with Spielberg, his contributions greatly influenced the promotion of numerous iconic films, including ‘Jaws’, ‘Close Encounters of the Third Kind’, ‘Jurassic Park’, and ‘Gladiator’. In recognition of his exceptional work in public relations, Levy became the first publicist to receive an honorary Oscar from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2018, a significant milestone given that no publicist had ever been nominated for such an honor before. Though he found his calling in publicity somewhat by chance, his exit from MGM and his subsequent career decisions demonstrated his desire to excel in film promotion. Levy’s enduring partnership with Spielberg was not only professional; it also fostered a deep friendship. Spielberg expressed profound grief over Levy’s passing, recognizing him as a one-of-a-kind individual whose humor and positivity greatly impacted those around him. Levy’s legacy goes beyond just his notable collaborations with Spielberg; he shaped the public relations field, becoming one of Hollywood’s most respected figures in his profession. He maintained his passion for storytelling and marketing throughout his life, remaining devoted to his craft until his full retirement in 2024. Marvin Levy is survived by his wife Carol, their two sons, Don and Doug, and two grandsons, Brian and Daniel. His absence will be keenly felt in the industry, not only due to his accomplishments but also because of the joy and laughter he brought to many lives. The impact of his work and the respect he garnered from his peers highlight his invaluable role in Hollywood's rich history.