Renowned British filmmaker David Leland passed away on December 24, as confirmed by his representatives at Casarotto Ramsay & Associates. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Leland’s artistic journey began in theater, directing the debut of Michael Palin and Terry Jones’ “Their Finest Hours” and facilitating Pierce Brosnan’s stage debut in Tennessee Williams’ “The Red Devil Battery Sign.”
His illustrious career spanned film and television, penning scripts for critically acclaimed works like “Made in Britain” (1982), “Birth of a Nation” (1983), and the Oscar-nominated “Mona Lisa” (1986) starring Bob Hoskins.
In 1987, Leland made his directorial debut with “Wish You Were Here,” securing the BAFTA for Best Original Screenplay and earning the Fipresci prize at Cannes. Notable film credits include “The Big Man” (1990) with Liam Neeson and “Land Girls” (1998) featuring Rachel Weisz.
A close friend of George Harrison, Leland directed “Checking Out” (1988), produced by Harrison’s HandMade Films, and multiple music videos for the Traveling Wilburys and Tom Petty. Following Harrison’s passing, he directed the Grammy-winning documentary “Concert For George” (2003), a memorial concert featuring Beatles members McCartney and Starr, Eric Clapton, and Petty.
Leland’s television highlights encompass directing the acclaimed “Band of Brothers” (2001) episode “Bastogne,” earning him an Emmy, and his work on Showtime’s “The Borgias” starring Jeremy Irons.
Tributes poured in for Leland, with heartfelt messages from industry figures like Pierce Brosnan, Tim Roth, Liam Neeson, and Terry Gilliam, expressing gratitude for his mentorship and creative influence.
Brosnan reminisced on Leland’s pivotal role in his acting career, while Roth cherished the profound impact Leland had on his life. Neeson lauded Leland’s collaborative spirit, and Gilliam praised his honesty and cited “Wish You Were Here” as a personal favorite.
Survived by his wife, Sabrina, four daughters, son, and six grandchildren, David Leland leaves behind an enduring legacy in the world of cinema and performing arts.
