James Fitzgerald, a Hollywood publicist and manager, recently passed away at the age of 91. He was renowned for representing some of the industry’s biggest stars, including his wives Jane Powell and Erin O’Brien, as well as Rock Hudson, Louella Parsons, Chuck Connors, and Howard Keel. Fitzgerald’s son, Greg Fitzgerald, confirmed that his father died of natural causes at an assisted living facility in Canoga Park.
Throughout his career, Fitzgerald also played a crucial role in advancing the careers of numerous talented individuals. He provided guidance and assistance to celebrities such as John Raitt, Engelbert Humperdinck, Anna Maria Alberghetti, Jimmy Van Heusen, and The Burgundy Street Singers. One of Fitzgerald’s remarkable experiences involved promoting the Sammy Cahn song “High Hopes,” which became a major hit for Frank Sinatra and even won an Oscar in 1960. During the promotion of the song, Fitzgerald had the opportunity to meet and interview Eleanor Roosevelt, who performed the lyrics, as seen in a historical video clip.
Fitzgerald’s personal life was filled with notable marriages as well. He was married to singer-actress Erin O’Brien, known for her roles in “77 Sunset Strip” and “Onionhead,” from 1951 until their divorce in 1963. He then went on to marry Jane Powell, a standout actress in the beloved film “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” from 1965 until their divorce in 1975. Notably, Fitzgerald was Powell’s third husband out of five.
Born on October 15, 1931, in Redwood City, California, James Donald Fitzgerald grew up in a small Californian town. After completing his education at Woodrow Wilson High School in Long Beach, he received assistance from Sammy Davis Jr. in securing a job in the mailroom at Rogers & Cowan, a prominent entertainment PR agency. Fitzgerald eventually established his own company, James Fitzgerald Enterprises Inc., located on Sunset Boulevard.
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Thanks to his connection with Sammy Davis Jr., Fitzgerald landed a role as a press agent for the film “Ocean’s Eleven” in 1960. The movie starred Sammy Davis Jr., Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop as members of the iconic Rat Pack. Additionally, Fitzgerald specialized in handling public relations for songs that were in contention at the Academy Awards, like “High Hopes,” throughout his career.
Fitzgerald is survived by his wife of 34 years, Laurie, with whom he spent a total of 43 years together. He is also survived by his three sons, Greg, James, and Anthony, as well as his two sisters Marion and Barbara. In addition, Fitzgerald leaves behind a grandson named Trevor, a great-granddaughter named Haley, and a niece named Judy.
James Fitzgerald’s passing marks the end of an era in Hollywood. His expertise, dedication, and influential role in shaping the public image of some of the industry’s biggest stars will always be remembered. His legacy will continue to serve as an inspiration to those in the entertainment PR industry and beyond.
