Hollywood legend Jay Kanter Dies At The Age Of 97

In the Hollywood movie industry, few figures have left as lasting a mark as Kanter. Representing some of the most iconic names to grace the silver screen, his legacy is one of glittering success and lasting friendships. Among those he guided to stardom were the unforgettable Marilyn Monroe and the legendary Marlon Brando, who became lifelong friends. A spokesperson for Independent Artist Group confirmed that Kanter passed away peacefully at his Beverly Hills home, succumbing to natural causes.

Kanter's career began after his service in the US Navy, when he joined the media management group MCA as a junior agent in the 1940s. It was there that he demonstrated his exceptional talent for recognizing and nurturing talent, famously poaching Marlon Brando from a rival agent—a bold move that sparked a friendship that lasted until Brando's passing in 2004.

Throughout his illustrious career, Kanter represented a dazzling array of stars, including the elegant Grace Kelly, the charismatic Ronald Reagan, the enigmatic Warren Beatty, the charming Paul Newman, and the illustrious Laurence Olivier. His knack for spotting potential eventually led him to transition into film production, where his impact was equally significant.

Collaborating with his longtime friend Mel Brooks, Kanter worked on classics such as Young Frankenstein, Silent Movie, and High Anxiety. His keen eye for successful projects extended to blockbuster films like Chariots of Fire, Alien, Blade Runner, Thelma and Louise, as well as iconic franchises like Star Wars and Police Academy.

Kanter's personal life was as eventful as his professional one. He was married three times, first to actress Roberta Haynes, then to another actress, Judy Balaban. His third marriage to Kit Bennett Kanter lasted 49 years until her death in 2014. He leaves behind a legacy of six children and several grandchildren, each a testament to a life well-lived.