Messages of shock and sadness are being shared globally over the death of film and TV producer Paul Pope.
Pope’s family says he died peacefully, surrounded by them, on Thursday morning.
Premier Andrew Furey called Pope a pioneering filmmaker who showcased the province on screens, drawing visitors who then had to see it in person.
I am absolutely devastated by news of #PaulPope's sudden passing.
Paul was a pioneer, a driving force in our film and TV industry. With passion and energy, his work was inspiring and his legacy will live on.
My deepest condolences to Lisa and their family at this tragic time. pic.twitter.com/lRk2SNZ2TY
— Andrew Furey (@FureyAndrew) April 14, 2022
Roger Maunder, founder of the Nickel Film Festival and Upskydown Films, says Pope talked the talk and walked the walk.
A shocked Maunder called Pope a visionary who saw the potential for the industry here and acted on it, adding he “breathed and lived” film and TV.
Pope was behind the just-announced Film and Media Production Centre at College of the North Atlantic.
He was also on the Come Home 2022 Host Committee, producing many of the events planned over the next several months.
Pope helped expose the province to the rest of the world through such films as Rare Birds and Extraordinary Visitor, the wildly popular Hudson and Rex TV series, as well as the multi-award-winning documentary My Left Breast.
We have some sad news – Paul Pope, a dear friend, colleague and Executive Producer on Hudson & Rex, has passed away. He was a partner on seven Shaftesbury projects, a beloved figure in the industry, and a force in Newfoundland. His family and friends are in our thoughts. pic.twitter.com/HAXNATvDn0
— Hudson & Rex on Citytv (@hudsonandrex) April 14, 2022
Paul Pope’s Secret Nation was my 1st job as a film extra. His Anchor Zone was my first lead role in film. Many people got their 1st jobs in film & TV from Paul. Then their 2nd, 3rd & even 100th. Because of his work with CNA, many more will now learn the craft. RIP Paul Pope.
— Mark Critch (@markcritch) April 14, 2022
