The Passing of the Master. RIP Drew Struzan
It is with a very heavy heart that we share news of the passing of the master, movie poster artist extraordinaire, Drew Struzan.
Born in Oregon in 1947, he recalled that growing up, the only paper he had to draw on was toilet paper, but drawing was all that he had at the time, He was advised by a career counsellor that if he chose a career as a fine artist, he could "paint what he wanted", but as an illustrator he would "paint for money". His response? "I need to eat!"
After graduating college, he joined the Pacific Eye and Ear design studio, producing album covers for the likes of The Bee Gees, The Beach Boys, Black Sabbath and Alice Cooper.
After forming his own company, movie poster work came to him in the mid 1970s. In 1977 he was asked by artist Charles White III to help with the 'circus' poster for George Lucas' upcoming sci-fi flick Star Wars.
He never looked back. From the late seventies, through to the mid nineties, his movie posters dominated movie theaters and cinemas all over the world. You may be surprised by how many you know.
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He retired in September 2008 having left an indelible mark on popular culture.
In early 2025, Drew's ever-present wife, Dylan, revealed that he had been living with Alzheimer's for a number of years. The master passed on 13th October 2025.
RIP Drew and thanks for the magic.
If you would like to learn more about Drew and his movie posters, do check out our blog posts highlighting his work.
The Movie Posters of Drew Struzan
The Most Beautiful Movie Poster (You Haven't Seen)
Congratulations To Movie Poster Legend Drew Struzan
