John Avildsen – R.I.P.

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I am sad to report that John Avildsen died today at the age of 81.

I first became aware of John Avildsen’s work with W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings in 1975. Lightning struck when Avildsen directed Rocky to 10 Oscar nominations (winning three including Best Picture, Best Editing and Best Director for Avildsen).  The success of Rocky led to Rocky II but an agreement to return couldn’t be reached. Avildsen later said the decision was “one of my greatest mistakes.”  Avildsen’s star ascended again when he steered all three Karate Kid movies to box office success.

John Avildsen was known as the King of the Underdogs, but I will always be grateful for his part in making my all-time favorite movie, Rocky.

My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, his friends and his fans.