Sandy Bresler, the esteemed talent agent who represented Jack Nicholson for over 60 years, has died at the age of 87.
The industry veteran passed away in Santa Monica on Thursday after a brief illness, according to a statement from Bresler’s family.
Bresler and the future Oscar winner, now 87, first met while both were serving in the California Air National Guard, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
He started his career as a secretary at the William Morris Agency in 1960 and began representing Nicholson the following year.
When Nicholson was honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the 1999 Golden Globes, he dedicated a tribute to Bresler.
Sandy Bresler, the esteemed talent agent who represented Jack Nicholson for over 60 years, has died at the age of 87
‘There is only one agent who has stayed with me, guided me, tolerated my tantrums, my operatic behavior and so forth,’ the Shining vet said onstage, per Variety. ‘His name escapes me,’ he joked, continuing, ‘Sandy Bresler, my pal and comrade in arms!’
Born on January 20, 1937, Bresler was the son of Jerry Bresler, a producer known for films such as The Vikings (1958), Gidget Goes to Rome (1963), Casino Royale (1967), and an Oscar-winning short in 1943, according to the outlet.
In 1983, Bresler co-founded the boutique agency Bresler-Kelly & Associates with John Kelly.
Throughout his career, he also held positions at CMA and ICM.
In addition, he served as president of the Association of Talent Agents for over a decade while being on its board for nearly 30 years.
He was also a lifelong member of the Motion Picture Academy.
‘Throughout Sandy’s remarkable tenure, as a friend and leader, he demonstrated unparalleled dedication and visionary leadership, guiding the association through a period of significant growth and transformation,’ said Karen Stuart, ATA’s Executive Director, in a statement.
‘Under his stewardship, ATA expanded its reach and influence. Sandy’s unwavering commitment to the talent agency profession was instrumental in advancing the interests of our members and elevating the industry as a whole.
Bresler and the future Oscar winner, now 87, first met while both were serving in the California Air National Guard, according to The Hollywood Reporter; (Nicholson in 1960)
When Nicholson was honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the 1999 Golden Globes , he dedicated a tribute to Bresler; (seen with Best Actor Oscar for One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest in 1975)
Bresler’s clients also included actors Judd Hirsch, Randy Quaid and Louise Linton; (Hirsh in 2023)
‘Sandy was a mentor to many and he leaves behind a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come.’
Bresler’s clients also included actors Judd Hirsch, Randy Quaid and Louise Linton.
In 2003, he survived a sextuple bypass, per THR.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Nancy; his son, Eric; his daughter, Jennifer; and his twin grandsons, Brandon and Jonah.