One of the most historic women to grace the film industry, Jan Haag, has passed away at the age of 90. Born in 1933, Haag committed herself to several facets of art and entertainment beyond film, including various artistry and even dancing. On top of that, she also studied law.
Haag was the first woman inducted into the American Film Institute’s Academy Intern Program. Following her induction into the AFI, Haag created the Directing Workshop for Women. The Directing Workshop for Women sought to forge opportunities for established actresses within Hollywood to break into the directing side of projects.
The original lineup of actresses saw the likes of Ellen Burstyn, Julia Phillips, Lee Grant, Lily Tomlin, Margot Kidder, Karen Authur, Susan Oliver, and Nancy Walker. Also included were author Maya Angelou, and writer Joanna Lee, with casting director Nessa Hyams, alongside the then-President of the Screen Actors Guild, Kathleen Nolan.
As Hollywood Reporter points out, the AFI’s Instagram page took to honoring the legacy Haag leaves behind, saying, “She left an indelible mark on the over 350 filmmakers who have participated in the program and her legacy is having launched one of the first gender impact programs of its kind in the cinematic arts.” The post for Haag will be linked below.
Haag is survived by nieces Suzanne and Jana Hawley, and her nephew, Sam Hawley.
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