Born: December 20, 1921 – Died: December 27, 2002
George Roy Hill, born on December 20, 1921, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, came from a well-to-do Roman Catholic family with Irish roots, known as the owners of the Minneapolis Tribune. His upbringing was privileged, attending private school and later pursuing graduate studies in music at Yale. Hill's journey took an unexpected turn as he served as a transport pilot during World War II and was later recalled for the Korean War, where he rose to the rank of major. Despite his military career, Hill's passion for flying and storytelling ultimately led him to become a renowned director, leaving an indelible mark with films like "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" and "The Sting." George Roy Hill's legacy in the entertainment industry remains iconic.
Early Life and Career
George Roy Hill's childhood in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was marked by privilege within his Roman Catholic family of Irish heritage. He attended private school and later pursued graduate studies in music at Yale University. His unexpected detour into the military during World War II and the Korean War, where he achieved the rank of major, hinted at his disciplined background. However, it was his passion for flying and storytelling that set him on a path to become a celebrated director.
Hill's directorial career took off with the film adaptation of "The World of Henry Orient." Still, it was "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," featuring Paul Newman and Robert Redford, that propelled him to cinematic stardom. The film's success, grossing over $68 million during its initial run and winning seven Oscars, firmly established Hill's reputation as a director.
Throughout his career, George Roy Hill remained an 'actor's director,' known for his storytelling prowess and nostalgic attention to detail. He continued to leave his mark in Hollywood with iconic films like "The Sting," which earned him an Oscar and a Director's Guild Award. Despite not always resonating with critics, Hill's work consistently resonated with audiences, cementing his place as a commercially reliable filmmaker.
In his personal life, Hill was married to Louisa Horton, with whom he had four children. He was known for his unpretentious and self-effacing demeanor, a rare trait in the entertainment industry. George Roy Hill passed away in New York City on December 27, 2002, due to complications from Parkinson's Disease, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of cinema. His films continue to be celebrated for their unique storytelling and impact on the entertainment industry.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1988 | Funny Farm | Director |
| 1984 | The Little Drummer Girl | Director |
| 1982 | The World According to Garp | Director |
| 1979 | A Little Romance | Director |
| 1977 | Slap Shot | Director |
| 1975 | The Great Waldo Pepper | Director (directed by) |
| 1973 | The Sting | Director |
| 1972 | Slaughterhouse-Five | Director |
| 1969 | Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid | Director |
| 1967 | Thoroughly Modern Millie | Director |
| 1966 | Hawaii | Director |
| 1964 | The World of Henry Orient | Director |
| 1963 | Toys in the Attic | Director |
| 1962 | Period of Adjustment | Director |
| 1957–1959 | Playhouse 90 (TV Series) | Director |
| 1958 | The Seven Lively Arts (TV Series) | Director |
| 1956–1957 | The Kaiser Aluminum Hour (TV Series) | Director |
| 1955–1956 | Kraft Theatre (TV Series) | Director |
| 1955 | Lux Video Theatre (TV Series) | Director |
| 1954 | Ponds Theater (TV Series) | Director |
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