Hollywood Executive David Matalon, Co-Founder of TriStar Pictures, Dies at 82

Film executive and producer David Matalon has died. He was 82 years old. Matalon passed away at his home in Beverly Hills on Tuesday. This was confirmed by Searchlight Pictures to The Hollywood Reporter.

Matalon was a pivotal figure in Hollywood for decades. He helped shape major studios and produced notable films. His career spanned from the 1970s through the 2000s.

A Lasting Legacy at TriStar and Regency

David Matalon began his career at Columbia Pictures International. He rose to executive vice president. In 1982, he co-founded TriStar Pictures and served as its president.

He helped establish the new studio’s early direction. After TriStar, he took the helm at Regency Enterprises. He was CEO from 1995 to 2008.

Under his leadership, Regency produced major critical and commercial hits. The studio’s slate included L.A. Confidential and Fight Club. Other successful films were Heat, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, and Entrapment.

His tenure secured Regency’s industry standing. He negotiated a crucial 15-year distribution deal with 20th Century Fox. This pact guaranteed the studio’s films reached a wide audience.

An Independent Producer and Industry Pillar

Matalon also worked as an independent producer. His film credits are varied and respected. He produced What’s Eating Gilbert Grape in 1993.

That film featured early career performances from Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio. He also produced Color of Night with Bruce Willis. Other producing credits include Hear No Evil and Breaking Up.

He reflected on his career before leaving Regency in 2007. Matalon said he wanted to return to the pure love of filmmaking. He felt running a company distanced him from the creative process.

His impact is remembered by colleagues and the industry. He is survived by his daughters, brothers, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed.

The film industry mourns the loss of David Matalon, a visionary executive. His work at TriStar Pictures and Regency left a permanent mark on Hollywood. His legacy is cemented in the iconic films he helped bring to the screen.

Info at your fingertips

Who was David Matalon?

David Matalon was a veteran Hollywood film executive and producer. He was best known for co-founding TriStar Pictures and serving as the CEO of Regency Enterprises for over a decade. He died on May 6, 2025, at age 82.

What films did he help produce?

As CEO of Regency, he oversaw production of films like *L.A. Confidential*, *Fight Club*, and *Heat*. As an independent producer, his credits include *What’s Eating Gilbert Grape* and *Color of Night*.

What was his role at TriStar Pictures?

Matalon co-founded TriStar Pictures in 1982. He served as the studio’s president, helping to establish its early strategic direction and identity in the competitive film market.

How did he impact Regency Enterprises?

He led Regency from 1995 to 2008, guiding it to produce award-winning hits. He also secured a key 15-year distribution partnership with 20th Century Fox, which stabilized the studio’s operations.

What has been the industry reaction?

News of his passing was confirmed by studio representatives. The industry recognizes him as a major figure who helped build two significant film studios and championed bold filmmaking.