Entertainment
Leonard Morpurgo, veteran Hollywood publicist, dies at 93
The London-born international film publicist worked over five decades in the entertainment industry with major studios and independent productions.
The short version
- International film publicist and communications executive Leonard Morpurgo died of cancer on August 12 at age 93.
- His career spanned more than 50 years and included executive roles at Universal Studios, Columbia Pictures, CBS Theatrical Films, Lorimar Pictures, and Rogers & Cowan.
- Morpurgo was a member of AMPAS and BAFTA Los Angeles, and wrote a 2009 memoir detailing his work with major film stars.
Key facts
- Leonard Morpurgo died of cancer on August 12, 2026, at the age of 93.[Variety]
- He held senior positions across a 50-year career at major industry companies including Rogers & Cowan, Universal Studios, Columbia Pictures, CBS Theatrical Films, and Lorimar Pictures.[Variety]
- He published a memoir titled 'Of Kings and Queens and Movie Stars' in 2009.[Variety]
- Morpurgo was a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and BAFTA Los Angeles, and was nominated for the Les Mason Award for Achievement in Publicity in 2022.[Variety]
- He is survived by his wife, Elena-Beth Kaye, twin sons Benjamin and Thierry, and three grandchildren.[Variety]
Sources
- Veteran Hollywood Publicist Leonard Morpurgo Dies at 93Variety metered