The sudden demise of prominent producer of Musicals Craig Zadan has sent the entire Hollywood and awards fraternity in shock.
Only yesterday Hollywood’ music industry was all celebrating and gathered under one roof for MTV VMAs awards night at New york’ Radio City Hall and the evening was followed with a great sad news of Craig Zadan’s death. Craig Zadan passed away on Monday night(Pacific Daylight Time) at Hollywood Hills.
Craig Zadan dies at 69. Known for his prolific contribution in the fields of stage, TV and film musicals, Craig was oftenly called as soul and body of theater, who brought the musicals back to TV and ignited the passion for music among the youths, once again. Craig Zadan was going through complications after having his shoulder replacement surgery. The news about Zadan’s unexpected death broke Tuesday evening, leaving Zadan’s former collaborator singer John Legend, director Adam Shankman and commoners in shock.
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Craig Zadan was very passionate about his work towards theater and musicals. Zadan and his longtime producing partner Neil Meron were among the industry’s busiest teams, who would put hours of time running numerous projects, including NBC’s next live musical event, “Hair,” slated for 2019.
NBC Entertainment Chairman Robert Greenblatt announced Zadan’s death on Tuesday. “Craig’s distinguished career as a passionate and consummate producer is eclipsed only by his genuine love for the thousands of actors, directors, writers, musicians, designers, and technicians he worked with over the years. His absence will be felt in our hearts and throughout our business,” Greenblatt said.
John Legend, Neil Patrick Harris and many other celebrities are mourning the sudden demise of Craig Zadan.
RIP to our friend Craig. He produced Jesus Christ Superstar with us and also produced the Oscars when Common and I sang "Glory" in front of a replica of the Pettus Bridge. A wonderful producer and a lovely man. https://t.co/pFSSSaabhM
— John Legend (@johnlegend) August 22, 2018
I’m stunned and saddened the unexpected passing of Craig Zadan. He’s been a friend my entire adult life, championed me to host the Oscars, brought musical theatre back to TV. A wonderful, kind spirit. My sincere condolences to his family and his partner, Elwood. #RIP pic.twitter.com/BWLDmViJar
— Neil Patrick Harris (@ActuallyNPH) August 22, 2018
Wow so sad to hear about Craig Zadan. He had music and dance in his soul. And when people are dancing and singing the world is a better place. RIP Craig and Cut Loose!
— Kevin Bacon (@kevinbacon) August 22, 2018
Devastated to hear of Craig Zadan's sudden passing. He was a true gentleman and a thoughtful, sensitive and tremendously talented producer. My heart goes out to his family, friends and colleagues. Rest in peace Craig.
— Michael Chiklis (@MichaelChiklis) August 22, 2018
In shock….Craig Zadan, my colleague and producer of Hairspray and so many musicals has passed…. prayers for him and his loved ones….I’m so confused and disoriented….he and… https://t.co/wy17UOJIUj
— Adam Shankman (@adammshankman) August 22, 2018
I’m absolutely shocked to hear that Craig Zadan has passed away. He dedicated his life to bringing musical theater to the masses and succeeded beyond anyone’s wildest dreams. My condolences to his family and his producing partner @neilmeron. https://t.co/aoJk4H7QNe
— Rory O'Malley (@RoryOMalley) August 22, 2018
So deeply shocked & saddened to hear this news . Such a passionate & committed man. Love & blessings to his loved ones . ??@craigzadan https://t.co/Dalpc5v2id
— Donna Murphy (@DMurphyOfficial) August 22, 2018
Even the Academy Award paid tribute to Craig Zadan:
Today, we celebrate the life of Craig Zadan, Oscars producer and dear friend to the Academy. His talent, spirit and dedication to film have inspired us all. pic.twitter.com/X25g8yPb32
— The Academy (@TheAcademy) August 22, 2018
We're so sad to hear about the passing of the incredible producer Craig Zadan. We honored Craig at the #GLAADawards in 2012 for accelerating acceptance for LGBTQ people through his work. Our love goes out to his partner Elwood Hopkins and his producing partner Neil Meron. pic.twitter.com/OAfaXtOmUX
— GLAAD (@glaad) August 22, 2018
Rest in peace to Tony Nominee, Producer Craig Zadan https://t.co/DXQIy5XNNF
— The Tony Awards (@TheTonyAwards) August 22, 2018
I am devastated by the news of the passing of my dear friend and film, tv & Broadway producer, @craigzadan. My life and career were forever changed by the opportunities he and his producing partner, @neilmeron, provided me over the years. I will miss him, dearly. pic.twitter.com/SoPSZCCrkE
— Sean Hayes (@SeanHayes) August 22, 2018
Craig Zadan’s talent, taste, vision & intellect lives on in all of his prodigious work. His generosity of spirit, warmth & buoyancy lives on in those fortunate to have worked with him. Forever grateful for Desi. Shocked & saddened by his passing. Love to Elwood & @neilmeron.
— Danny Pino (@TheDannyPino) August 22, 2018
Craig Zadan and his co-producing partner Neil Meron produced Oscar telecasts for ABC from 2013 to 2015. The duo were the key members of the team behind the NBC drama “Smash,” set in the world of Broadway. Other TV productions Zadan and Meron steered together include biographical miniseries on Judy Garland, the Beach Boys, and the Three Stooges for ABC in 2000 and 2001.
After a long partnership with Neil Meron, only recently Zadan had changed his Production team name from Storyline Entertainment to Zadan/Meron Productions. Together they earned themselves six Oscars, 17 Emmy Awards, two Tony Awards, two Peabody honors, and a Grammy.
Zadan is survived by his partner, Elwood Hopkins.
May Craig Zadan Rest In Peace. His absence will be deeply felt.
