On May 26, 2008, Sydney Pollack, who is an Academy Award-winning director has passed away at the age of 73. Pollack had lost his battle of cancer Monday afternoon in his Los Angeles home. It was only nine months since Pollack was diagnosed with cancer.
Pollack himself is considered one of the major names in Hollywood. He died in his home surrounded by people that mattered most to him, his loved ones. As a director, Pollack is one of the most respected names in Hollywood. He is also one of the most respected directors amongst the long list of names of actors and actresses.
One notable film directed by Pollack was the movie “Tootsie” which starred Dustin Hoffman. In the movie, Hoffman’s character poses as a female to get a part in a soap opera. This could also be one of the most memorable classic films let alone successful films in Pollack’s career as a director.
Even Hollywood actor George Clooney had much to say and praise for Pollack. Recently, Pollack’s film “Michael Clayton” got seven Oscar nominations. He could go down in history as one of Hollywood’s best directors.
Pollack’s family immigrated to the United States from Russia. The family lived out in Lafayette, Indiana. Before going into directing, Pollack performed on Broadway. He had even taught acting classes back in the 1950s at NYC’s Neighborhood Playhouse.
Pollack didn’t start direction until the 1960s.
To many, Pollack will be missed. Such director credits under Pollack’s name include: “Out of Africa,” “Random Hearts,” “Sabrina,” and “The Interpreter.”