Executive At Lionsgate And Mandalay Pictures, Peter E. Strauss, Dies At 83

Peter E. Strauss died on October 6 at his Beverly Hills home. He was 83. He was a producer behind films such as The Killers Game and Air and an executive at Lionsgate, Mandalay Pictures, IMG, and Allied Artists. He is best known for his work in films The Jacket and the Best of the Best franchise. 

Strauss’ most recent work involves acting as executive vice president at Mandalay over the last 25 years. He hugely contributed to the expansion of the independent film industry and it would not be the way it is now if it were not for his help.

Before his work at Mandalay, Strauss was president at Lionsgate which he helped stabilize with founder Frank Giustra. At Lionsgate, he was in charge of countless films, such as Martin Sheen’s Cadence. In the 1970s, he worked as executive vice president of Rastar Films. Then a few years later he founded Panache Productions. However, he began his career with Allied Artists where he helped produce best picture Oscar winner, Cabaret. 

Strauss studied at Oberlin College, the London School of Economics and Columbia University School of Law. He is leaving behind his wife Susan, his son, Jonathan, daughter-in-law, Elizabeth, and his grandchildren. 

There was a private graveside service held on October 8.