24 May 2025 , 08:40
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Award-winning TV producer Jeff Margolis, who was also the director of the Oscars, Emmys and Screen Actors Guild Awards, has died at the age of 78
Jeff Margolis, the producer and director behind the Oscars, Emmys, Screen Actors Guild Awards and American Music Awards, has died at the age of 78.
The director and TV producer’s death was announced by his family, who shared a statement to reveal Jeff had died in Nashville. No cause of death was given.
Jeff had a glittering career in showbiz, as he was the TV producer and director behind a string of highly-acclaimed award shows. He also worked with a number of talented musicians including Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson, Elizabeth Taylor, Bette Midler and Cher, directing TV specials for the entertainers.
The SAG Awards committee paid tribute to Jeff upon learning of his death. Sharing a statement, which read: "Jeff Margolis created some of the most unforgettable moments in awards show history, and we are grateful that the Screen Actors Guild Awards was among them.
"For over 16 years, Jeff helped shape the telecast into a celebration worthy of the actors it honors. We are profoundly grateful for his contributions and will miss him dearly."
Jeff’s career in TV started from the ground up as his first job in the industry consisted of him holding up cue cards for the uncle Monty Hall on Let’s Make a Deal. After gaining experience on live television shows, Jeff went on to direct and produce major TV events such as the Oscars.
He directed a total of 22 American Music Awards, eight Oscars Academy Awards, seven Screen Actors Guild Awards, three Emmys, three Golden Globes Red Carpet specials and two Academy of Country Music Awards on TV.
Just last year, Jeff was quizzed about the secret to his success in which he said: "I believe a significant part of my success is rooted in kindness. I’ve maintained a principle of never raising my voice, yelling, embarrassing anyone or losing my temper.
"On every show I work on, I focus on building a family-like atmosphere. I want everyone to feel involved and consider the project as important to them as it is to me. Collaboration is key for me.
"There are times when someone suggests an idea better than mine, and I happily use it, giving them full credit. Building a collaborative family where everyone feels valued and essential to the project’s success is important to me."
No stranger to award ceremonies, Jeff also bagged a few awards of his own throughout his career. He picked up two Directors Guild of America Awards for directing the Oscars, six Emmy nominations for helming the Academy Awards between 1991 and 1996, and Emmy wins for the 1995 Oscars and Sammy Davis Jr.’s 60th Anniversary Celebration.
Speaking of his love for his job, Jeff would often say: "The thrill I get when I’m directing is indescribable…I can’t wait to get out of bed in the morning and go to work," according to his obituary statement.
He is survived by his children Adam, Erin and Samantha as well as his grandchildren, Max and Milo.
Deputy Editor