Stephen Emery, a highly regarded producer and film executive, has tragically passed away at the age of 46. Emery had an impressive career, working with industry giants such as Gale Anne Hurd and Bill Gerber, and collaborating with esteemed actors like Clint Eastwood, Anna Kendrick, Liam Hemsworth, Aaron Eckhart, and Liam Neeson.
Emery’s sudden death occurred on Saturday while he was at a Los Angeles gym after a workout, according to Big Swell Entertainment CEO, Andy Horwitz. Emery had recently joined the production company, which had launched just a few months prior.
In a statement, Horwitz expressed the devastation felt by those who knew Emery, saying, “Everyone that had the pleasure to know Stephen Emery is heartbroken over the sudden loss of one of our own. Stephen was much more than an invaluable producer; he was also an irreplaceable friend. His passion for film was outweighed only by his passion for life, and he lived every day like it was his last. We will miss his adventurous spirit, his loyal friendship, and his genuine love for life. Rest in peace, brother.”
Prior to joining Big Swell, Emery held the position of Head of Film & TV at The Solution Entertainment Group since 2016. During this time, he played a significant role in the development, packaging, and production of various projects for both film and television. Notably, Emery co-executive produced the Netflix film “Wheelman” in 2017, directed by Jeremy Rush and featuring Frank Grillo. He also executive produced “Killerman” in 2019, directed by Malik Bader and starring Hemsworth; “Line of Duty” in 2019, directed by Steven C. Miller and starring Eckhart; “Honest Thief” in 2020, directed by Mark Williams and starring Neeson; and the upcoming film “Werewolves,” directed by Steven C. Miller and starring Grillo.
Born and raised in the San Francisco area, Emery had a genuine love for the creative arts. He pursued his passion at the University of San Diego, where he earned a degree in mass communication with an emphasis on film and television. Emery’s love for storytelling through film led him to begin his career at Creative Artists Agency (CAA), where he spent three years working in the motion picture talent department. He later went on to work for DreamWorks and Focus Features before joining Gale Anne Hurd’s Valhalla Motion Pictures as a production executive. At Valhalla, Emery oversaw the production of Paramount’s “Aeon Flux” in 2005. He then moved on to run Bill Gerber’s Warner Bros.-based company, producing notable films such as Clint Eastwood’s “Gran Torino” in 2008.
Between 2008 and 2015, Emery served as the Executive Vice President of Production and Development at Circle of Confusion. During his time there, he executive produced “Mr. Right” in 2005, starring Anna Kendrick and Sam Rockwell, as well as “Satanic” in 2016, starring Sarah Hyland.
Emery’s sudden passing has left his frequent collaborators and friends, Tai Duncan and Dave Brown, in deep shock. They expressed their admiration for Emery’s joyful approach to filmmaking and zest for life. They also remembered his incredible resilience, as he had previously survived and thrived after suffering a sudden heart attack while participating in a triathlon in 2018.
In addition to his professional achievements, Emery was known for his love of the outdoors and his unwavering support for the San Francisco Giants, the 49ers, and the Grateful Dead. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed spending time in nature.
To honor Emery’s memory, donations can be made in his name to the No Kill Los Angeles/Best Friends Animal Society, an organization close to his heart. Emery is survived by his parents, Jan and Tony; his brothers Shawn and Paul; his longtime girlfriend, Chloe; and his beloved dog, Jasper.
Reflecting on Emery’s life, Shawn Gillis, his brother, spoke fondly of Emery’s deep-rooted passion for film and storytelling. He described Emery as a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend who brought people together and inspired them to chase their dreams.
Stephen Emery’s untimely death has undoubtedly left a void in the film industry and the hearts of those who knew him. His legacy as a talented producer and kind-hearted individual will not be forgotten, and his influential contributions to the world of cinema will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.
