Remembering Jonathan Kaplan: A Legacy in Film and Television
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jonathan Kaplan, a renowned director known for his work in both television and film. Kaplan, who directed projects such as “The Accused” and was Emmy-nominated multiple times for his work on “ER,” passed away on Friday in Los Angeles at the age of 77. His daughter, Molly, confirmed that the cause of death was advanced liver cancer.
Born in Paris to film composer Sol Kaplan and actress Frances Heflin, Kaplan’s early years were spent between Los Angeles and New York. He began his career as a child actor, appearing on Broadway in Elia Kazan’s production of “The Dark at the Top of the Stairs.” After completing his education at the University of Chicago, Kaplan further honed his craft by studying film under the mentorship of Martin Scorsese at New York University. In 1967, he gained recognition for his award-winning student short film, “Stanley.”
Following Scorsese’s recommendation, Kaplan landed his first feature film directing gig with Roger Corman, directing the successful comedy “Night Call Nurses.” This paved the way for Kaplan to direct a series of films throughout the 1970s, including “The Student Teachers,” “The Slam,” “Truck Turner,” “White Line Fever,” and “Over The Edge.”
In the 1980s, Kaplan transitioned to directing TV movies and music videos, collaborating with iconic musicians such as Barbra Streisand, John Mellencamp, and Rod Stewart. His return to feature film directing in the late 1980s resulted in critical acclaim with projects like “The Accused,” “Immediate Family,” “Unlawful Entry,” and “Love Field.” Kaplan’s final theatrical release came in 1999 with “Brokedown Palace.”
As the new millennium approached, Kaplan shifted his focus to television, directing episodes of popular shows like “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and “Brothers & Sisters.” However, his most significant contribution came with his involvement in “ER,” where he directed over 50 episodes and received five Emmy nominations for his work as a producer on the series. Kaplan’s final credit was for executive producing the 2014 documentary “That Guy Dick Miller.”
Throughout his illustrious career, Kaplan’s work garnered numerous accolades, including nominations for Golden Bear Awards at the Berlin International Film Festival, a Leo Award, and a CableACE Award. Despite his professional achievements, Kaplan’s personal life also saw its share of ups and downs, including his marriage to casting director Julie Selzer and their subsequent divorce in 2001.
Jonathan Kaplan is survived by his daughter, Molly Kaplan, his sister Nora, and his two nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Mady Kaplan Ahern. As we bid farewell to a talented director whose legacy will endure through his work, we remember Jonathan Kaplan for his significant contributions to the world of entertainment.
