Composer George Fenton, Five-Time Oscar Nominee, Dies at 76
George Fenton, the British composer nominated for five Academy Awards, died unexpectedly on Monday, his family told the BBC.
George Fenton, the British composer who received five Academy Award nominations over a career spanning stage, film and television, died on Monday at the age of 76. His family confirmed his death to the BBC, saying he passed away unexpectedly. His cause of death was not immediately available.
Fenton was born on Oct. 19, 1949, in England. He began his career in the theater, appearing in Alan Bennett's play Forty Years On in 1968 before moving into composition. In 1974, Peter Gill asked him to write the music for a Royal Shakespeare Company production of Twelfth Night, marking a turn toward scoring that would define the rest of his working life.
His Oscar nominations included best original score for Gandhi, Cry Freedom, Dangerous Liaisons and The Fisher King, as well as a best original song nomination for "Cry Freedom." He also won two Emmy Awards and earned two Grammy nominations.
Fenton's film work extended well beyond those nominated titles, with credits on films such as Groundhog Day and You've Got Mail, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Quick answers
How old was George Fenton when he died?
He was 76. He was born on Oct. 19, 1949, in England.
What was George Fenton's cause of death?
His family did not give a cause, saying only that he died unexpectedly. His cause of death was not immediately available.
Which films earned George Fenton Oscar nominations?
He was nominated for best original score for Gandhi, Cry Freedom, Dangerous Liaisons and The Fisher King, and for best original song for "Cry Freedom."