David Matalon, TriStar Pictures Co-Founder and Regency CEO Behind ‘What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,’ Passes Away at 82
Veteran Film Executive David Matalon Passes Away at 82
David Matalon, a prominent film executive and independent film producer, has died of natural causes at his Beverly Hills home. Searchlight Pictures confirmed his passing on Tuesday. Matalon was 82 years old.
Born on July 5, 1943, Matalon made a significant impact on the film industry over the decades. He produced or executive-produced several notable independent films in the 1990s, including What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, featuring Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio, as well as Hear No Evil, starring Marlee Matlin. His other notable works included Color of Night, starring Bruce Willis, and Breaking Up, with Russell Crowe and Salma Hayek.
Matalon’s career began at Columbia Pictures International, where he climbed the ranks to become Executive Vice President. He then co-founded TriStar Pictures, serving as its president and playing a crucial role in defining the studio’s early identity and strategic direction before moving on to Regency Enterprises.
From 1995 to 2008, Matalon served as CEO of Regency Enterprises, transforming it into one of the largest independent film studios. Under his leadership, the studio produced several acclaimed films, including the Oscar-nominated L.A. Confidential, Heat, Fight Club, Unfaithful, Entrapment, and The Fountain. During his tenure, Regency forged a significant 15-year distribution agreement with 20th Century Fox, helping to solidify its standing in the industry. He stepped down in July 2007.
Following his departure from Regency, Matalon established a production company on the Fox lot. His last credited project was as an executive producer for the 2010 martial arts film Bunraku, which starred Josh Hartnett and Woody Harrelson.
Matalon is survived by his daughters, Michelle and Shirlee; his brothers, Roy and Amnon; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
