Ted Hartley, RKO Pictures Chairman and Hollywood Veteran, Dies at 100

Ted Hartley, the charismatic chairman of RKO Pictures, has died. He was 100 years old. The actor and producer passed away on October 10 in New York City. His career spanned decades in film and theater.

Hartley was a longtime resident of the Hamptons. He was a key figure in reviving the legendary RKO studio. His work left a lasting mark on Hollywood.

A Legacy of Reviving a Hollywood Giant

Hartley and his late wife, actress Dina Merrill, took control of RKO in 1991. Their company, Pavilion Communications, bought a majority stake. This gave them control of the studio behind classics like Citizen Kane.

He produced several films under the RKO banner. These included a 1998 remake of Mighty Joe Young for Disney. He also produced a 2002 television version of The Magnificent Ambersons for A&E.

From Tony Nominations to the Silver Screen

His stage work was equally notable. Hartley earned Tony Award nominations in 2007 and 2008. He was recognized for producing the musical Curtains and a revival of Gypsy.

As an actor, his most famous role was in Clint Eastwood’s High Plains Drifter. He played hotelier Lewis Belding. Hartley also appeared on TV shows like Peyton Place and Barnaby Jones.

Ted Hartley’s century-long life encapsulated a unique chapter of Hollywood history. His leadership at RKO Pictures ensured the studio’s iconic name endured for new generations. His multifaceted career as a producer and actor will be remembered.

Thought you’d like to know

How old was Ted Hartley when he died?

Ted Hartley was 100 years old at the time of his passing. He died on October 10 in New York City.

What was Ted Hartley’s role at RKO Pictures?

He was the chairman and CEO of RKO Pictures. He and his wife, Dina Merrill, acquired a controlling interest in the studio in 1991.

Was Ted Hartley nominated for any major awards?

Yes, he received two Tony Award nominations for Broadway productions. He was nominated for the musical *Curtains* and the revival of *Gypsy*.

What was one of his notable acting roles?

He played Lewis Belding in Clint Eastwood’s 1973 western, *High Plains Drifter*. He also had roles in films like *Ice Station Zebra*.

What was his background before entering entertainment?

Hartley was a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and a former jet fighter pilot. He also served as a White House aide under President Eisenhower.