Julian Owen from Alliance Agents confirmed that British producer Robert Watts has passed away in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. He shared that they worked with Robert for ten years, taking him to conventions around the world where he could meet fans and talk about his career.
Many friends and former colleagues have shared touching messages on social media. Roger Christian, who won an Oscar for his work on Star Wars, posted on Facebook, saying Robert was one of five people who supported George Lucas and their small art department in making Star Wars.
Robert Watts was born into a movie family, as his grandfather, Walter Meade, was a well-known screenwriter. Inspired by his grandfather, Robert started working in film after returning from two years of national service in Nigeria. His first job was as a runner on the comedy A French Mistress.
He later became a production manager at Shepperton Studios. However, his big break came when he worked with George Lucas on Star Wars, which launched his successful career.
In a 2011 interview, Robert Watts shared that at the beginning of filming Star Wars, George Lucas was personally paying for everyone because 20th Century Fox hadn’t officially approved the movie yet. The studio was struggling financially and didn’t believe in the project.
Robert also worked with the famous director Steven Spielberg on the Indiana Jones movies. His impressive career included working on films like Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Return to Oz, which was produced by George Lucas.
Sadly, it was also announced that Harry Potter and Downton Abbey star Maggie Smith passed away at the age of 89 after an incredible 70-year career in acting. She was well-loved for her roles, especially as Professor McGonagall in Harry Potter and Violet Crawley in Downton Abbey.
Her sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, said she died peacefully in the hospital early on Friday, September 27. They added that she was surrounded by friends and family at the time. Maggie leaves behind two sons, five grandchildren, and many fans who will miss her deeply.