Lynda Obst, Producer of Interstellar and Sleepless in Seattle, Dies at 74

It is with great sorrow that we report the passing of renowned producer Lynda Obst at the age of 74. The esteemed Hollywood figure reportedly died at her Los Angeles residence on Tuesday, October 22, 2024.

Her son, Oly Obst, who serves as a manager and producer at 3 Arts Entertainment, stated that she was surrounded by her family and loved ones during her final moments. In a heartfelt tribute shared with The Hollywood Reporter, he reflected on his mother’s impactful legacy:

“My mother was not only a pioneer but also a passionate advocate for women in every sense. She excelled as a mother, sister, and best friend. My wife, Julie, and I are tremendously grateful for having her in our lives and for the beautiful relationship she had with my daughters as their grandmother. Her absence will be profoundly felt.”

Tributes poured in following the announcement of Obst’s death, including one from her brother Rock Rosen, a partner at WME. He expressed his admiration in a statement to Deadline, acknowledging her as “a pioneer for women in the industry”during a period when female representation was scarce. Rosen emphasized her commitment to her craft and her family life.

Lynda Obst leaves behind an impressive legacy in Hollywood, having produced iconic films like Interstellar, Sleepless in Seattle, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Flashdance, and Adventures in Babysitting. Before her passing, she was involved in the production of three upcoming films: Voyagers, K-Pop: Lost in America, and a spin-off titled How to Get Over a Guy in 10 Days.

In addition to her achievements in film production, Obst was also an accomplished author, having penned works such as Hello, He Lied & Other Tales from the Hollywood Trenches.

Lynda Obst’s Struggle with COPD

While the exact cause of her death has not been shared by her family, Lynda Obst had disclosed to The Hollywood Reporter in February 2024 that she was dealing with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). She mentioned her diagnosis was made six years prior, candidly describing her condition:

“[It’s] Spanish for ‘I messed up my lungs.’

According to the World Health Organization, COPD is a widespread lung condition. Although symptoms such as cough, fatigue, and breathing difficulties may improve, it remains incurable. Individuals suffering from COPD may also face additional health complications, including pneumonia, lung infections, lung cancer, and heart disease.

Obst also opened up about her long-standing smoking habits, sharing that she had been smoking since her teenage years without discrimination in her choices. She recounted her past experiences:

“I smoked anything and everything that this earth has to offer since I turned 16. It was a joyous and pleasurable part of my life, and I loved sharing those moments with stars like Kate Hudson outside movie trailers. It was one of the greatest joys of being a producer.”

After her COPD diagnosis, she made the decision to quit smoking immediately, though it took her several years to stop using marijuana altogether. Once she gave up smoking completely, Lynda Obst discovered that engaging in physical activities provided her with a new sense of exhilaration.

As per her family’s announcement, Lynda Obst’s funeral will be a private affair, but a celebration of her life is planned for the coming months.

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