Jerry Weintraub: A Look into His Life and Legacy

Jerry Weintraub was a famous film producer and a true Hollywood legend¹. He worked in the entertainment world for over 50 years². His career shows his deep love and commitment to his work².

As a producer, Jerry Weintraub was known for his skill in telling unique stories¹. He won many awards for his work¹.

Jerry Weintraub worked with stars like Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, and Led Zeppelin². His company, which started with just $461 million, was a huge success³. He also made a big impact in the music world, managing famous artists and producing hits².

Jerry Weintraub’s work in films is remembered today, inspiring many¹. He is a true Hollywood legend, showing us the power of hard work and passion².

Key Takeaways

• Jerry Weintraub was a renowned film producer and Hollywood legend.
• He had a career spanning over half a century, working with big names like Elvis Presley and Bob Dylan².
• Weintraub’s production company was the largest privately financed start-up in movie-industry history³.
• He made significant contributions to the music industry, managing high-profile clients and producing hits².
• Jerry Weintraub’s legacy extends beyond his films, inspiring new generations of filmmakers and audiences¹.
• He won numerous awards, including a Golden Globe for producing “Behind the Candelabra”¹.
• Jerry Weintraub’s life and legacy serve as a reminder of the power of passion and dedication in achieving success².

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Jerry Weintraub started his journey in the entertainment world long before he became famous. He grew up in Brooklyn and later in the Bronx. These early years helped shape his future.

Family Background and Upbringing

Weintraub was born on September 26, 1937, in Brooklyn, New York. He was raised in a tight-knit Jewish family in the Bronx⁴. His childhood in these lively neighborhoods made him love the performing arts and city life.

Initial Steps in Show Business

Weintraub’s first steps in show business were simple. He worked as a theater usher and waiter in the Catskills. There, he watched shows and talked to artists, learning a lot.

He then joined MCA as a mailroom clerk⁴. There, he met Lew Wasserman, who taught him about talent management and the entertainment world.

Transitioning from Agent to Producer

Weintraub moved from being an agent to starting his own management company⁵. He managed famous musicians like Paul Anka and The Four Seasons. This made him known as a great talent manager.

He quickly became good at finding and helping talented artists. This led to working with legendary stars and helped him become a big name in Hollywood.

Notable Productions and Achievements

As a top Hollywood producer, Jerry Weintraub made films that changed the game. His work includes both acclaimed dramas and hit franchises that reached fans everywhere.

Major Films Produced by Jerry Weintraub

Weintraub’s The Karate Kid was a huge hit, making $90 million and starting a series⁶. He also worked on the Ocean’s Eleven remake, which made over $1 billion worldwide⁶. His early film, “Nashville,” got five Oscar nods and showed his skill in mixing art and profit⁷.

Awards and Recognitions

Weintraub won three Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe for his TV work. His show “Behind the Candelabra” won 11 Emmys, proving his talent and range⁶.

Impact on the Film Industry

Weintraub changed how films are made, from funding to marketing. His new ways helped future producers deal with the film world’s challenges more easily.

Personal Philosophy and Influence

Jerry Weintraub was deeply dedicated to the entertainment world. His love for stories and his ability to motivate others made him a true Hollywood legend.

Leadership Style and Approach

Weintraub had a unique leadership style. He was both determined and friendly. This mix helped him build strong bonds with artists and executives.

His approach encouraged creativity and innovation. This made his team thrive in a collaborative environment.

Mentorship and Influence on Others

Weintraub mentored many in the entertainment industry. He helped actors, musicians, and professionals grow. His talent for spotting and nurturing talent was key to their success⁸.

Philanthropic Efforts and Contributions

Weintraub was also a big supporter of charity work. He helped the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and co-founded Not On Our Watch. This organization aimed to stop mass killings in places like Darfur⁸.

His work showed his deep commitment to helping others. His legacy as a Hollywood legend is not just about his work. It’s also about his dedication to making a difference⁹.

Source Links

1. Jerry Weintraub 1937-2015 – Golden Globes – https://goldenglobes.com/articles/exclusives-jerry-weintraub-1937-2015-30573-exclusives-jerry-weintraub-1937-2015-30573/
2. Jerry Weintraub dies at 77; producer made ‘Karate Kid,’ ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ films – https://www.latimes.com/local/obituaries/la-me-jerry-weintraub-20150706-story.html
3. The Next Tycoon : Jerry Weintraub Helped Launch the Careers of Singers, Actors and Musicians. Now, He’s Launching Himself–as Head of a $461-Million Film Production Company. – https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1987-05-24-tm-2154-story.html
4. Jerry Weintraub – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerry_Weintraub
5. Jerry Weintraub – http://www.personalmanagershalloffame.org/jerry-weintraub.html
6. Jerry Weintraub’s notable movies include ‘Nashville,’ ‘Karate Kid’ – https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-mn-jerry-weintraub-dies-notable-movies-nashville-karate-kid-oceans-20150706-story.html
7. Jerry Weintraub – https://www.televisionacademy.com/bios/jerry-weintraub
8. Life Lessons from Film Producer Jerry Weintraub – https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Books/film-producer-jerry-weintraub-life-lessons-stop-talking/story?id=10299188
9. Jerry Weintraub dies: For longtime producer, a zeal buttressed by swagger – https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-mn-jerry-weintraub-dies-producer-movies-quotes-20150706-story.html